Town Hall Rejected As Library Building

THE conversion of Thame town hall for use as a library, now looks unlikely following the town council’s rejection of an offer from the county council.
Thame Town Council today issued the following press release, explaining its position:-

“At a recent Extraordinary Meeting, Thame Town Council decided that the County Council?s offer for a lease on the Town Hall, for use as a library, was totally unacceptable, and it was agreed that Council did not wish to pursue any further negotiations on this basis. The alternative, of selling the freehold to County, was also looked at and discarded.

“Originally, Councillors had been keen to explore all possibilities with the County Council. But they consider that one of their responsibilities is to hold the Town Hall in trust for the town and that its continuing use as a civic building is important and significant. Although the Hall?s facilities are under-used, there is a great need for meeting space in Thame and with the right marketing it is thought that the Hall?s bookings will increase. It is, however, acknowledged that the building is in need of repair and refurbishment.

“The majority of residents who responded to the press release about the ongoing negotiations were against the Town Hall becoming a library. A full public consultation has not been undertaken.

“The Town Council is encouraging the County Council to pursue their other options for a library (the Pied Pedaller building and the Fire Station) with all urgency.”