Story: Lisa Swift, Nazrul Hussain, Rohan Francis
The Council have submitted a planning application to move Burngreave library to Sorby House, revealing that the library will be substantially smaller.
The housing office is also moving. The plans show the ground floor room on the right, next to Rainbow’s end, as the public face for Housing Services, with more office space on the 3rd floor.
The Council could not explain why the Library move was being made, at a cost of £40,000. Instead they said the plans would be part of the general Library service consultation. A spokesperson said,
“Plans will not be completed until the final outcome of the library review and also the outcome of consultation that is planned to take place with the local community.”
However the Messenger understands that the consultation was supposed to start in June and has been delayed until August. In the meantime planning permission has already been sought; suggesting the decision has already been made. One local parent said,
“It’s not good that they are moving it but we don’t have a choice all the Council do is cut cut cut.”
The Messenger understands that the Sheffield College who currently use Sorby House will be moving into both the library building and the housing office. The Council did not confirm who would be moving into the buildings.
The plans for the library show that space will be cramped. Planners have failed to include space for computers or a serving desk and office for staff to work from. Sorby House opening times will also restrict opening times of the library to 5pm at the latest.
Speaking to local parents, many expressed concern about the move:
“It’s on a busy road, Sorby House, it isn’t really a place where I would take my son it’s not very appealing to me and it wouldn’t encourage me to go there.” Sharlene Clarke
“I don’t feel good about it moving to Sorby House mainly because of the big road it’s very busy and dangerous, if it’s too dangerous I’m going to stop going.” Local mother
“It’s comfortable now. Where it is now is good and it is good for the kids. I think it will be too small in Sorby House.” Sacda
“Its not a good idea. I have a 12 year old daughter who goes to the library. I don’t think its safe if it moves because of cars – people drive too fast and people hang around. If they move I will not send her there. We will go somewhere else instead.” Rahma
will to be left with a purpose built library sat empty which they are going to have to fill with something else. I don’t understand why the ‘something else’ can’t go in Sorby House. It seems ridiculous to move the library into a space that is less suitable at the cost of £40,000. I’d like to see a cost benefit analysis, I’d like to see the figures.” Lucy
Other parents said the most important thing was that the area kept a library but were unhappy that the space would be smaller
“As long as the hours are the same and it’s a friendly atmosphere I think it’s alright. But if it’s smaller I think it’s a bad idea and do not agree with it. Adults and children need their own space, it would be too cramped.” Safiya Saeed
“At least we still have the library, some areas have completely lost theirs, and if the staff are still there its fine. But I thought the premises would be bigger, it needs to be the whole ground floor. It’s already small, it’s unacceptable.” Felson