Plan to move Fareham Library goes before Hampshire County Council
If the idea is approved, the plan to regenerate Fareham town centre can continue unhindered
Hampshire County Council is being asked to support plans to move Fareham Library as part of a wider town centre redevelopment scheme.
If councillors approve the proposal next week, officers will be able to continue discussions with Fareham Borough Council on the possible move, including the design, costs and arrangements for a replacement site.
The potential move is linked to the borough council’s regeneration plans for Fareham Shopping Centre, which include proposals to demolish parts of the site where the library is currently located.
However, no final decision has been made on the move, and the county council have said it must not cost taxpayers more or affect the services currently provided.
A report going before the county council’s executive member for corporate services on Thursday, September 10, says any replacement site must be large enough to continue providing all existing services before the move can be approved.
The former department for work and pensions building in Fareham High Street was considered as a possible alternative location, but ruled it out after finding it was unsuitable.
A potential new location within the shopping centre has now been identified, but officers say it requires further assessment before it can be approved as a suitable replacement.
Before any move can go ahead, Hampshire County Council wants a detailed plan setting out the costs, legal arrangements and how the library would operate from a new location. Officers have recommended that any relocation should be cost-neutral, or better, meaning it should not leave the council facing extra costs.
A public consultation may also be required if the move would significantly change how library services are delivered.
Fareham Borough Council is expected to consult residents as part of the wider regeneration plans.
Councillors are only being asked to support the proposal in principle at this stage. Any final decision on whether Fareham Library moves will depend on further details, including the costs, legal arrangements and impact on services.