Permanent home still sought for closed library

The former library on Grace Hill in Folkestone has been closed since 2022

Full library services will return to a town centre after the original building was closed due to safety concerns.

Kent County Council says it will be improving services at the current temporary site for Folkestone Library as it aims to replace services which were removed from Grace Hill in 2022 due to safety concerns.

Paul Webb, cabinet member for community and regulatory services, said the council was "continuing to look at options for a long-term home" which could include moving back into Grace Hill or another building in the town centre.

A consultation with community groups on the future of Grace Hill will continue until 31 October.

Mr Webb said: "People in Folkestone deserve access to the full range of library services, and I'm delighted to say that's exactly what we're working to deliver as quickly as possible."

He added the council had received a "significant amount of interest" in the Grace Hill building from community groups, including some who want to keep the library within the building.

Some library services continue to be available at the former Shepway Youth Hub building, also in Grace Hill.

A building survey in 2024 found that repairing the former building, which is Grade II listed, would cost the county council £2.9m.

Kent County Council also said it was considering renting back space in the building for library services, while also looking for alternative sites for the library within Folkestone.