Partial climbdown in library row
UNDER-FIRE council chiefs have announced a climbdown on controversial plans to open a drug and alcohol recovery centre at a library.
Newcastle City Council’s plans for Fenham Library have sparked an outpouring of anger in recent weeks, with families and nearby schools raising fears over the impact on local children.
But, before a public meeting on the library plans last evening, the local authority decided on a “phased launch” of the rehabilitation services in a bid to calm residents’ fears.
The recovery services – which will not include a needle exchange or prescription distribution – will begin on a reduced timetable while the council consults further with neighbours and schools.
At a bad-tempered meeting at the library last Thursday, furious Fenham residents claimed they had been misled by the council, as the plans for the facility had referred to it only as a “health and well-being hub” with no mention of addiction services.
Coun Kim McGuinness, cabinet member for sport, culture and public health said: “We are continuing to work with and consult residents on the redevelopment of Fenham Library and the new Drug and Alcohol Recovery Hub.
“During our engagement it has become clear that there are concerns about this project and we are keen to alleviate these fears and make clear what services will be provided from the Hub.
“As a result we will be looking at how we can deliver a phased launch of the services in the library, including starting with a reduced timetable of recovery services and close working with local schools to look at how we can fit this around their school day.
“We will also be working with the community to invite them into the services to take part in community events, this is the perfect opportunity for residents to learn more about the recovery first hand.
“We will continue to consult with residents, local schools and businesses throughout this initial launch to ensure the long-term success of the redevelopment and services being delivered and positive impact on the community.”
Construction work has already begun on the library’s revamp and the rehab services are expected to launch later this year.
The latest public meeting on the plans was due to be held at the Robert Stewart Memorial Church last night.
The council admitted last week that it should have consulted more with residents, but maintained that the proposal is “necessary” to reduce the city’s drug problem and to save the library.
A number of residents said they feared drug dealers would target recovering addicts using the centre and that children could pick up pills and needles which could be left nearby.