A statement from Steve Tuckwell MP on the Hillingdon Council Executive Cabinet decision to relocate Uxbridge Library
The Hillingdon Council Executive Cabinet met on 15th February 2024 and approved the plan to relocate the library from its current location to the Middlesex Suite at the Civic Centre, subject to planning permission. The meeting was attended by members of the public and was live streamed on You Tube where it is still available to watch (search ‘Hillingdon London’).
I am not a Cabinet Member and I have never had a vote on any issues concerning the library. I have passed on to the relevant councillors and officials, any feedback I have received from residents; always aware that the final decision would be made by Cabinet, and I would not be able to influence it other than making sure residents’ voices were heard.
I know many people will be disappointed by the decision, but I have made it clear that I expected Hillingdon Council to consider a range of crucial objectives when making their decision including an improved range of services, better access, a celebration of our heritage, firm links with other Council related services and crucially value for money for the Hillingdon Taxpayers. Whilst the business case presented to the Executive Cabinet did address these points, I will stress that words on a document must now be translated into actions that guarantee these vital points.
At a time when other Councils are closing libraries, I acknowledge and applaud Hillingdon for not following a similar route. That said, the concerns raised by residents need to be addressed and every effort made to ensure that the relocated library is better equipped, more accessible and offers high quality services for all residents to enjoy. Anything short of this will result in strong representation being made to both the political and operational leadership for Hillingdon Council.
Whilst as an MP and Ward Councillor, I have no jurisdiction over executive Council decisions, residents can be assured that I will be monitoring this project very closely to ensure that objectives set out in the business case that underpinned the decision to relocate Uxbridge’s central library are met in full.
Steve Tuckwell MP
