Serious vandal attack on Newark Library delays reopening date

Oliver Pridmore

20 May 2024 at 10:35 am·1-min read

Newark Library entrance, pictured behind bushes and flowers — Newark Library -Credit:Nottinghamshire County Council

Damage at a Nottinghamshire library targeted by vandals is "greater than expected" and the site's reopening has been delayed. Newark Library was targeted over the weekend beginning April 27, with five roof windows damaged.

Nottinghamshire County Council, which runs the site, originally said that the vandalism would not affect the reopening date for Newark Library. The facility closed on January 18 for planned maintenance of its heating and cooling systems and was originally set to reopen on June 3.

The council has now confirmed that this reopening date will be pushed back, although a new date has not yet been confirmed. Councillor Keith Girling, the cabinet member for asset management at Nottinghamshire County Council, said: "Initially we thought that the damage would not affect the reopening date, however following a full assessment, we now know that it will.

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"On closer inspection the amount of internal water damage at the library was greater than we first expected. Unfortunately, the lead time for this extra work to be carried out will set us back and we will let everyone know as soon as possible when we are able to reopen.

"I'd like to thank residents for their patience as we work to resolve and repair the damage. We can't wait to welcome valued and new library members back through the library doors." The nearest alternative library is on Main Street in Balderton.

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