Walton Library……fears for its future?

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22^nd October 2008

Dear Sir,

As a resident of Walton-on-Thames for many years I am concerned about the future of the old Library building, formerly the local school.

This building is currently not in use and the its future appears to be uncertain since the proposal to move the Elmbridge Museum into it has now been abandoned.

The building is, in my view, of architectural interest marking the entry to the town from the A 244 Hersham Road, with its distinct turret, and it is regrettable that it seems not to have been listed as a building of importance.

Over the last few years Walton has changed considerably, but whereas it is important that we should look to the future, it is also essential that we should retain some reminders of the past. This building is an attractive one, though it would seem to be worth considering removing all of the modern temporary structure around the town end of it, so that it can be seen to be of the same era as the schoolmasters house next door. This might also mean that it would be less prone to possible vandalism as well.

My fear is that this site could be seen as an asset that could raise capital for short term benefit and that the building could be lost to the community.

Are you able to assure me that this will not be the case and could you please update me on the possible future uses of the site?

I am sorry to trouble you on this matter, and please if necessary pass this letter on to the relevant department.

Yours sincerely,

(A.I.C.Reid)

The Chief Executive,

Elmbridge Borough Council,

Civic Centre, Esher,