The building in which Langley Library is located has reached the end of its natural life - this is universally accepted.

A proposal to rebuild the Library with associated residential development was originally developed in early 2004 - the principle went to Cabinet in July 2004 with a request to explore options outlined at that meeting.

Following investigation of options, proposals went to Cabinet on 24th January 2005 recommending a library rebuild with disposal of adjoining garage site for residential development. This was approved, at the meeting. Councillor Rob Anderson expressed his support for the proposal.

The planning application was processed in accordance with statutory requirements and adopted local procedures. Details were included in the fortnightly list of new applications sent to all Members and also in the draft list of applications proceeding to the Planning Committee, the latter sent to all Members 3/4 weeks before the meeting. In addition there was a formal Committee Member site visit on 21st October prior to the 26th October Committee meeting.

The process was repeated for the second application in respect of the fortnightly list and draft list of Committee items.

Drawings were clearly displayed for the public to view in the Library once the application had been submitted. The application was submitted by A2 Housing, not the Council.

During the application process we became aware that some concerns were being voiced by a Kedermister Ward Councillor and a number of residents. Council officers co-ordinated a public meeting in the library under the chair of the Tenants' Federation on 13th October. This was attended by Rob Persey, Judith Moore and the applicant's representative from A2 Housing, Steve Coggins.

Following refusal of the planning application in late October the scheme was revised to take account of key concerns raised, mainly the height of the elevation to the rear and car parking. These revised drawings were discussed with the Kedermister Councillors on 23rd November attended by Rob Persey, Peter Jones, Yvonne Cope and Councillors Small and Mann who stated their satisfaction with amendments. Details of the proposed amendments were sent also to Ward Councillors in Langley St Mary's and Foxborough.

This brings us to where we are now. It has been made clear to Ward Councillors that once the scheme is being progressed we would consult locally with regard to final internal layout, colours, fittings etc. But as the Library will not be ready until early 2007 this will not happen until summer 2006.