Joy in Wigan as the historic ‘beating heart of community’ library is saved
It was a major talking point of the Makerfield by-election, now funding has been found to secure the future Ashton town centre’s library after it closed two years ago due to disrepair
Funding has been found to complete the refurbishment of a Wigan library deemed the “beating heart” of its commumity.
The historic, Carnegie-built Grade II listed library in Ashton-in-Makerfield closed in July 2024 for essential repairs, with services temporarily moved to Jubilee Park.
While it was originally only closed for essential maintenance, subsequent surveys revealed more severe damage, particularly to the roof.
Scaffolding will shortly be erected for external and structural repairs to the building on Wigan Road.
This week, the council’s cabinet member for communities and neighbourhoods Chris Ready, announced that funding had been found for the next phase of the work.
He said that phase two would involve consultation with council members and the public to help shape the future of the library.
Coun Ready said: “Shortly, residents will see scaffolding going up at Ashton library to make the building watertight.
“I would like to thank councillors Fletcher, Bullen, Myler and Jones, who have been on this journey for many years, as well as Josh Simons MP and Andy Burnham for their support and continued commitment to support this iconic and treasured building.
“I have received correspondence from across the borough on this issue, demonstrating just how important our libraries are to local residents.”
Bryn ward councillor Steve Jones, who has been heavily involved in the campaign to save the building said: “All six councillors and residents will be involved in deciding what extra services will take place from the library in addition to a new, modern library.
“We’re all relieved that all the money has been allocated to fully repair it.”
Makerfield MP and Prime Minister Andy Burnham has supported the library campaign.
He said: “Since becoming an MP, I’ve been fighting hard to save Ashton library.
“That’s because I understand what this library once meant to people – more than just bricks and mortar, it was the centre of this community, for families and kids, including my own.
“That’s why I’ve always said that the future of the library belongs not to the council, or developers, but to our community.
“Yesterday, the council announced funding for phase two of restoring the library, which will start once the exterior of the building is secured.
“Now is the time for all of us to come together to have a conversation about how this library will serve our community.
“This library should be the beating heart of our town once again, but how can it be if the people who’ll actually use this building are not involved in shaping what it looks like?”
The Prime Minister has launched a survey to hear directly from residents on their aspirations for the library.
It can be found at https://actionnetwork.org/forms/ashton-library-have-your-say/?.