Blackhall Library Update

As another winter approaches and Blackhall library remains closed a number of residents have understandably been in touch to ask what is happening. This is something that is very important to the Liberal Democrat Group and we are pushing hard behind the scenes to make sure that this does remain a priority. Please see the lates update below:

A Report is to be submitted to Finance and Resources Committee on 19 September providing an update on Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (RAAC) within the Council’s operational estate.

At Blackhall Library, due to the extent and poor condition of RAAC the building had to be closed. It is proposed to provide a temporary library facility at Davidson’s Mains Primary School and engage with the local community over the next six months about the options and location for a permanent library solution.  The temporary solution will be delivered as quickly as possible. If there are no unforeseen delays the temporary facility should be delivered by summer 2025.

The options to replace the RAAC in the longer term (i.e. the permanent solution) are complex due to the extent of work required, the potential costs and the wider condition of the building. An options appraisal has developed initial proposals for permanent solutions as follows:

• • Replacing all the RAAC;
  • Replacement of all the RAAC and retrofit of the building to reduce energy use;
  • A new library on the existing site; and
  • A new library on the Davidson’s Mains Primary School site.

The proposed wider community engagement will consider the implications of each option and the feedback will be included in further reports to Committee which will recommend the preferred long term solution.