Library’s addiction hub in ‘soft lauch’
A LIBRARY at the centre of a drink and drug recovery unit row has reopened with a “soft launch”.
Under-fire council bosses have arranged a series of open sessions at Newcastle’s Fenham library this week in a bid to reassure residents that the new services will not pose a danger to the community.
A petition with more than 3,000 signatures opposing the development was presented in the council chamber, after the plans sparked a huge outcry when they were revealed in August.
Newcastle City Council had previously agreed to a “phased” introduction of the recovery hub – which the civic centre has stressed will not include clinical services, prescription distribution or a needle exchange.
This week’s programme of events includes gym classes, alcohol awareness sessions, and welfare advice. The recovery hub will open fully early next year.
Coun Kim McGuinness, the council’s cabinet member for culture, sport and public health, said: “Since announcing the redevelopment plans for Fenham Library we have worked with residents, businesses and community organisations in the area to consult with them about how services will operate.
“Our four public consultation sessions have been attended by over 130 residents who provided valuable Councillor Kim McGuinness, Cabinet Member for Culture, Sport and Health and Eugene Milne, Director of Public Newcastle City Council and members of the development team which has created the new hub at Fenham Library
feedback, and we have also have approval of the plans from both adult and children’s safeguarding boards.
“This essential feedback has
allowed us to shape the new service, including the drug and alcohol recovery provision, so they have the most positive impact on residents and those needing support.
“I would like to invite all residents to our open week so they can look at this brilliant new facility, experience some of the community sessions that will be running from Fenham Library and explore the redeveloped space that has been created.
“There will also be the chance to grab a coffee from the new FoodWorks cafe, borrow from the library or take part in a physical activity session with Active Newcastle.”
In November, the council got full approval from the city’s adults’ and children’s safeguarding boards to press ahead with the hub.
However, there remains substantial opposition.
Kirstie Robison, of the Fenham Library Action Group (FLAG), said: “The fight is ongoing – we are trying to minimise the impact of what is happening as much as we can for the local residents.
“The damage is already done – the council cannot back down because the money has already been spent.
“I have to say that the Labour councillors have sadly let down all the residents, they have not actually listened to a word we have said.”
Among the measures the group requested are for a no-smoking zone outside the library and for written guarantees that the building will never be used for prescription distribution or a needle exchange.
She added that many residents have been left “unclear” about what events are happening at the library this week as the council has not informed them.
The council said it has sent the schedule for this week via email to residents and local councillors, as well as delivering 50 letters to the library’s neighbours.