Gidea Park Library, recently closed by Havering Council, will temporarily house construction firm Galliford Try, tasked with developing the Balgores Special School for children with special educational needs. The new school, set to open in September 2027 and initially approved in late 2023, has a budget of £38 million but is anticipated to save costs by reducing out-of-borough placements. The council is exploring future use of library spaces amidst community pushback against closures, which many residents believe harm the most vulnerable populations in the area.
The closure of Gidea Park Library by Havering Council for redevelopment triggers residents' concerns about impacts on vulnerable communities and library access.
Deputy leader Gillian Ford stated that relocating Galliford Try to the former library site would reduce costs associated with construction of the new Balgores Special School.
Havering Council expects that the new Balgores Special School, targeting children with special educational needs, would ultimately save money by reducing reliance on out-of-borough placements.
Concerns over library closures, which were seen as detrimental for economically disadvantaged residents, continue to be met with strong opposition from local groups and councillors.
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