Since early last summer, local Lib Dems have been hard at work trying to save the current library building in Richmond Road. Councillor Martin Johns explains: ‘Once the library moves in March to Moat Lane, Northamptonshire County Council will sell off its Richmond Road building. There’s a need for another community building for Towcester and this need will only increase as our town grows. In 15-20 years time Towcester will have doubled in size, there will be two new Primary Schools, new buildings at Sponne School and a sports pavilion with playing fields. However, there are no plans or funding for any new community building to meet an increased population.’

Councillor Martin Johns adds: ‘Leading the initiative, local Liberal Democrats have gained the backing of the town council, who in turn, have pledged to retain the building for community use.’ It’s thought it would be used by a variety of community groups, representing the arts, cultural and social needs. Towcester FoodBank, for example, is keen to find premises to run their service. The old school is ideally suited for continued use by the community. It’s centrally located, has parking, is also close to the town centre and other car parks.

Liberal Democrat County Councillor Chris Lofts writes: ‘The town council will bid for the building once it Northamptonshire County Council puts it up for sale. If necessary, the town council will seek to fund the scheme via funds coming from recent housing developments.’

Watch this space for more Focus action…