Campaign to reopen Polegate library admits defeat

The unexpected death of the group’s chairperson and the impact of covid-19 have forced this ‘painful’ decision, said Polegate Community Library CIO.

The group said in a statement, “After two years of hard work, the trustees have taken the extremely difficult decision that they are unable to continue their efforts to re-open Polegate Library as a community library.

“Unfortunately, still not having a workable lease after almost two years of negotiation, the impact of Covid-19 and the unexpected death of our Chairperson, has forced this painful decision.”

The group said it has tried to negotiate a five-year lease which would have given more flexibility, but they were unsuccessful.

The statement said, “with only a two-year lease available, the implications of making the premises safe in accordance with current health and safety regulations was too much of a challenge.

“We would like to take the opportunity to thank Polegate Town Council for its support, Maria Caulfield local MP for her backing, and also the many volunteers who were prepared to donate their time.

“The trustees are very grateful to those local people who stepped forward to join us on this journey. Unfortunately, we were unable to achieve our goal due to insurmountable challenges.

“It is with deep sadness and regret that the Trustees believe this is the only course of action open to us at this very uncertain time.

“Unfortunately, the outcome is not as we desired, however be assured that we did work tirelessly for the community of Polegate.”

Despite protests, Polegate Library was one of seven to be closed by East Sussex County Council (ESCC) in May 2018, though a number have since opened again as community facilities.

At the time, schoolchildren, teachers, and parents staged marches in a bid to save the library, which is next door to the school In Windsor Way.

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