Gidea Park library closure
Havering Council recently defeated a motion to protect community assets, including libraries, from disposal without public consultation.
Havering Council recently defeated a motion that would have required full public consultation before the disposal or change of use of community buildings, including libraries. The Labour Group put forward the Community Assets Protection Charter motion, which was not agreed by 21 votes to 8 at a council meeting in May 2026. This decision provides context for discussions around the closure of facilities such as the Gidea Park library.
The proposed charter would also have established a community Right of First Bid and required an annual Community Assets Register. Havering Council reaffirmed its commitment to protecting its libraries despite the motion's defeat. The Gidea Park library is scheduled for closure in 2025.
Key facts
- Havering Council defeated a motion to adopt a Community Assets Protection Charter on May 27, 2026. Source
- The motion was defeated with 21 votes against and 8 in favour. Source
- The Labour Group put forward the Community Assets Protection Charter motion. Source
- The proposed charter would have required full public consultation before any disposal or change of use. Source
- The proposed charter would have established a community Right of First Bid. Source
About this summary
This summary was written automatically from our published stories and the council meeting records they draw on. It describes what councils have discussed and decided; it does not take a view on any decision. Each key fact links to the story it comes from. Updated 30 September 2026. Spotted a mistake? Email community@opencouncil.network.