Council confirms commitment to library services as Cabinet agrees next steps for Southchurch

June 18, 2026

Southend-on-Sea City Council has reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining accessible, high-quality library services across the city, as Cabinet agreed next steps for Southchurch Library at its meeting on 15th June.

Cllr Kevin Robinson, Cabinet Member for Planning, Property and Governance, said: “Southchurch Library has served the community well for many decades, but the building has now reached the end of its useful life. The condition survey shows that significant investment would be needed, and even then, it would not provide a long-term solution.

“Our focus is on ensuring library services continue to be available for this community. There is no proposal to close Southchurch Library services, and no option being considered would result in the loss of library provision for this community, and we remain committed to maintaining our six libraries across Southend while we carry out a full options appraisal to identify the best way forward for Southchurch.”

Cabinet noted that the implications of each option, including how services would be delivered during any transition period, will be considered as part of the next stage of work.

The existing Southchurch Library building, a single-storey prefabricated structure opened in 1972, has exceeded its intended lifespan and is in poor condition. A 2023 condition survey identified significant structural deterioration. Estimated repair costs are approximately £250,000 for essential external works, rising to £325,000 or more when additional repairs are included.

Cabinet noted that, given the building’s age and condition, this level of investment would not represent value for money or provide a sustainable long-term solution, and agreed it is uneconomical to repair the existing building.

Cabinet agreed to undertake a full options appraisal and equalities impact assessment to determine the most appropriate way to deliver library services in the Southend Central East area. This will include consideration of the current site and a potential alternative location at Southend Adult Community College, Ambleside Drive. Southend currently has six libraries serving its 17 wards, and the Council has reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining a comprehensive and accessible library service across the city.