Council To Take Back Library Services

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Following collapse of Carillion Ealing will take back control and review options

Ealing library services are to be brought back under direct control of Ealing Council following the collapse of Carillion.

Ealing was one of three London boroughs, the others being Harrow and Croydon under the umbrella of Carillion subsidiary Community Cultural Solutions. Hounslow used Carillion up until last year when they ended the contract early and gave the management to their own company, Lampton 360

Ealing council say they have been closely monitoring the financial situation of Carillion and have 'robust contingency plans' in place, adding '' In order to secure the most efficient, value for money and high quality library services for residents and the future of the service, the decision has been taken to bring the service under the direct control of the council, with effect from 1 February 2018.''

All current library staff will have individual meetings to ensure they 'make a smooth transition to the council'.

The council say the move 'will allow time for all the options for the future of the service to be reviewed and considered'.

Councillor Ranjit Dheer, deputy leader of the council said: “I know that library users, residents and staff have been very concerned about the recent events in relation to Carillion.  The decision to bring the library service under direct control of the council will, I hope, allay those concerns and allow time for all options for the future delivery of a high quality library service to be considered.

“We are also seeking assurances from government on any funding that may be required to meet any increased costs in association with Carillion delivered services.”

 

 

 

29th January 2018