Lambeth’s crumbling libraries, leisure centres and public facilities have been described in a document which highlights the poor state of many of the borough’s resources - and suggests some could be closed or sold.
Opposition councillors have predicted a “fire sale” caused by Lambeth’s financial problems, but a council spokesman said it was “categorically not true” that there are plans to close libraries and leisure centres without replacing them.
The annual property performance report, which outlines the state of the council’s facilities, said services at the Streatham leisure centre were “severely compromised”.
It states: “The leisure centre is well beyond its life expectancy and is in a very poor state of repair.”
It adds plans to replace the centre as part of the Streatham Hub project are under review because of the collapse in the housing market.
Carnegie Library in Herne Hill Road, which is described as “ideal for sale for a private residential flat conversion”, is reported to have high running costs and a poor location.
The report suggests it could be relocated - but Stephen Carlill, chair of the Friends of Carnegie Library, called the idea a “red herring” and said the council was probably looking to close the site.
He said the report was “full of factual inaccuracies” and there was a “tremendous amount of local support” for the facility.
He said extending the library’s opening hours would offer greater value for money.
Streatham Tate Library was also described as not fit for purpose or large enough with high maintenance costs.
Liberal Democrat councillor Julian Heather said: “Labour has successfully trashed public housing in Lambeth with its botched housing Almo and it is now embarking on a slash and burn policy for other treasured public facilities.”
The report, presented at a council cabinet meeting on July 27, also reveals problems at Nettlefold Hall in West Norwood. It describes the cinema and theatre space as a “unique offering” - but points out its fittings and equipment are outdated and it is currently running at a loss to the borough.
The Wayletts Place car park in West Norwood is described as “no longer required” and recommended for sale, and Streatham’s Leigham Court Road car park is recommended for redevelopment.
Also under threat are Clapham’s leisure centre, library and public toilets.
A council spokesman said the upcoming closure of Clapham pool would be temporary while the site is rebuilt, and alternative arrangements would be made.
He added: “We are planning to expand and improve services to residents, not take them away. We have well advanced plans for new 21st century leisure facilities in Clapham and Streatham, including new swimming pools.”
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