Havering Council has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting its libraries, despite a motion to adopt a cross-party Community Assets Protection Charter being narrowly defeated.
During a council meeting on Wednesday, May 27, 2026, a motion was put forward by the Labour Group calling for the adoption of a charter that would safeguard community buildings and spaces. This charter would have required full public consultation before any disposal or change of use, established a community Right of First Bid, and published an annual Community Assets Register.
However, the motion was ultimately not agreed, with 21 votes against and 8 in favour. This decision comes at a time when three libraries – Harold Wood, Gidea Park, and South Hornchurch – were closed in 2025. A separate motion calling for a halt to plans to pass on, sell, or demolish these libraries was also not agreed.
Despite the defeat of the charter, Havering Council has reiterated its dedication to its library services.
