Official openings for the libraries at Mere Green, Walmley and Boldmere, together with the community centres within the Mere Green and Walmley buildings, were held on Saturday 1 November to celebrate they have become part of the new Royal Sutton Coldfield Town Council Libraries and Community Centres Service.
Over 250 guests, including civic dignitaries and members of the local community, came together to mark this exciting new chapter for Royal Sutton Coldfield.
Celebrations began at Boldmere Library, where Deputy Mayor of Royal Sutton Coldfield, Cllr Nitish Raut, officially opened the library with a ribbon cutting, accompanied by The Rt Hon Sir Andrew Mitchell and Cllr Simon Ward, Leader of the Royal Sutton Coldfield Town Council.
This was followed by the official opening of Walmley Library and Community Centre, which drew significant interest from the local community and was opened by the Mayor of the Royal Sutton Coldfield, Cllr Cindy Yip.
Festivities concluded at Mere Green Library and Community Centre, which was officially opened by Cllr Raut. The opening was well attended by members of local community groups, including FOLIO Sutton Coldfield. Library staff were thanked in speeches, delivered by The Rt Hon Sir Andrew Mitchell and Cllr Simon Ward, for their dedication and support.
The Mayor of the Royal Town of Sutton Coldfield, Cllr Cindy Yip said, “It was a real honour to open Walmley Library and Community Centre and celebrate the launch of the new Royal Sutton Coldfield Town Council Libraries and Community Centres service, ensuring our libraries and community centres remain welcoming and vibrant spaces for local people.”
Cllr Simon Ward leader of the Town Council said “This marks a significant moment in the development of the Council. A Library and Community Centre Service was something we talked to residents about just last year. Whilst the decision of Birmingham City Council to cut these services is disappointing it creates real opportunity for local delivery. I’m pleased we will be supporting increased opening across all three libraries in the Town whilst saving two community centres from closure.”
