Chiswick Library in danger from Labour
For many years Chiswick has had a fine Public Library in Duke's Avenue just off Chiswick High Road. The original building was bequeathed to the people of Chiswick by the owners of the famous Sanderson wallpaper factory in nearby Barley Mow Passage.Subsequently, Brentford and Chiswick Council built a new extension which today houses the Reference and Children's Libraries. The facilities are well used and well loved by a large number of Hammersmith, Chiswick, Brentford and Isleworth residents of all ages.There is now a very real concern that after this week's Borough Election, Hounslow Council will, if it is still controlled by the Labour Party, announce the sale, demolition and redevelopment of one of at least one of the two buildings that currently collectively comprise the Library. In view of the importance of Chiswick Library to the people of Hammersmitg, Chiswick,Brerntford and Isleworth it is important that the current Labour leadership of Hounslow Council state their position on this issue immediately.A cast iron guarantee from the Labour Leader of the Council before we vote on Thursday that the neither of the Library buildings will be shut, sold or redeveloped would be most welcome.Failing that local residents will be entitled to assume that Labour, if relected, does indeed intend to sell off part or all of the Library. Local residents will well remember that a few short years ago Hounslow's Labour Council closed down the Chiswick Day Care Centre which provided valuable services to elderly and vulnerable members of the community and hosted the lunches for the homeless run by the local churches. It did so despite opposition from the families and carers of those who used the centre, local GP's, the local churches, local Chiswick Councillors and our local MP Mary Macleod. The site has now been sold and is being redeveloped. Those of us with longer memories will remember when Hounslow's Labour Council tried to shut down and sell off New Chiswick Pool in Edensor Road, Chiswick but was prevented from doing so by an effective campaign by local residents. For all of these reasons, and more, it is important that Hammersmith, Chiswick, Brentford, Isleworth and Syon elect a large number of Conservative Councillors on Thursday.
David Giles ● 3993d0 Comments