New Twyford Library opens its doors

Clive Jones, Liberal Democrat parliamentary candidate for Wokingham, visited the new Twyford library on its opening day, Thursday 13 June, to show his support for this important community resource.

Previously housed in a portacabin, the library has now moved into the newly refurbished Old Polehampton Boys School, a historic Grade II listed building. As well as books and space for browsing, it also includes a children’s area and has space for events including book groups and sessions for families.

The project itself has a long history. Stephen Conway, current leader of the council and Lib Dem councillor for Twyford, Ruscombe, and Hurst, began the campaign for a new library more than twenty years ago, when the council was under Conservative control. But successive Conservative leaders of council, while promising much, failed to deliver. Only when the Lib Dems took control of the council in May 2022, under Clive’s leadership, did delivering the project become a priority.

Many people have contributed to the realisation of this community facility – especially the Polehampton Trustees - who stuck with it even when it seemed to be going nowhere, and particularly the late Dave Turner, the trustee who championed the Old Boys’ School site. Twyford Parish Council has also generously agreed to fund some of the internal fixtures and fittings.

The bulk of the funding has been provided by the borough council and developer contributions.

Clive Jones, the Liberal Democrat Parliamentary Candidate for Wokingham, said: “I’m delighted to be here on the opening day of the new Twyford Library. After 20 years

of Lib Dem and local campaigning, and despite the Conservatives putting the project on-hold, when I was Leader of the council I made sure that the new library went ahead.

“The refurbishment has created an excellent space and enabled this historic Grade II listed building to be used by the community, benefitting all generations.

“The Liberal Democrats recognise the importance of flourishing communities. This Conservative government has robbed local communities of the power, funding and resources they need, expecting councils to do more with less, and plunging many into financial crisis. As Wokingham’s MP I would fight to ensure that local government is supported to deliver the grassroots facilities that enable a thriving local community, such as local libraries, leisure centres and community sports clubs.”