An ambitious bid by Hale Community Trust, a group of active local residents, working with Hillcrest Homes, to build a new library, public toilets and pavilion building, has been given the go ahead by Trafford Council.

The bid involves the purchase of the current library site, for a material capital sum (which will be available to support the Council’s capital programme), together with the purchase of the freehold of the pavilion building off Ashley Road. 

Once these have been finalised, the building work would begin, funded through the redevelopment of the existing library site, subject to appropriate planning permission. A community charity trust would run the toilets, pavilion and other community assets.

Cllr Williams said this was tremendous news for local residents, library users and the Borough’s taxpayers and reinforced the Council’s commitment to work with local people to ensure local communities continue to benefit from first class amenities.
“By working with and supporting groups of enthusiastic, determined people we can help bring their visions to improve and maintain important community facilities such as these to fruition.
The Council has had to make difficult budget decisions, but continues to listen to its residents and, wherever possible, include their views and ideas in its final decisions. This is an excellent example and shows what can be achieved. Local new, modern facilities which can be enjoyed by everyone also help reinforce strong communities and provide opportunities for the next generation.”
Under the agreement, all future maintenance and running costs will be covered through the development agreement, meaning the Council has no on-going liability, while a significant capital receipt will be received by the Council. In addition, the Council will have a 125 year lease on the library, at no cost.

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