Sefton debuts community listing with Carnegie Library

Keppie Massie has successfully nominated Carnegie Library in Crosby on behalf of Friends of Carnegie Library, Crosby as an asset of community value.

The property is the first asset of community value to be listed by Sefton Council. Earlier this year, Sefton Council, as part of its budget review, resolved to close several libraries in the borough, including the grade 2-listed Carnegie Library built in 1904.

A community group, Friends of Carnegie Library, Crosby (FOCAL) was formed to try and safeguard the building and to continue its operation as a library run by volunteers.

FOCAL approached Keppie Massie for professional advice regarding the property which led to a nomination being made earlier this year under the provisions of the Localism Act 2011 to list the building as an asset of community value.

The legislation formally registers the group's potential interest in the building if it were ever to be offered for disposal. Following consideration by the council, the nomination was accepted and the property is due to be entered onto the council's list of assets of community value.

FOCAL is currently in advanced discussions with Sefton Council to lease the building to enable its continued use as a "free library," managed and operated by volunteers. The library would also offer space for community groups to meet and provide an outreach hub for voluntary agencies.

Phil Winckles, associate at Keppie Massie, said: "The Community Right to Bid legislation is a useful tool for ensuring the future use of land and property which benefits the local community. In the case of Carnegie Library and FOCAL's proposals, the listing will assist in safeguarding its future, help maintain the vitality of this area of Crosby and provide security for the future use of this historic building."