MORE concerns over the future of Salisbury Library have come to light after the council refused to say who would take on ownership of the service after the Maltings development.

After concerns raised at a city planning committee meeting last week, Wiltshire Council was unable to confirm to the Journal whether it would continue to own the building that houses the service when it moves to the Maltings.

Critics of the new plans have suggested moving the library to a smaller site could lead to its eventual closure.

When asked if the council would own the building the library moves into, a Wiltshire Council spokesperson said: “The negotiations between the parties are ongoing and as such remain commercially confidential.

“However, we will balance the council’s interest as landowner of the Market Walk and the library with our plan to deliver the economic regeneration and cultural improvements that will benefit Salisbury, increasing the offer for residents, visitors and tourists.”

A Freedom of Information request to Wiltshire Council also revealed that any information regarding decisions made about the library, Young Gallery, computer and printing facilities is not held by the council.

Labour councillor Tom Corbin, who submitted the request, said it “seems all decisions are being made in secret”.

He added: “It would appear that no decisions have been taken about the library services.

“This is interesting because it contradicts what was said at the area board meeting.

“After all, how else do we know that the reference library and Young Gallery had nowhere to go during the ‘temporary period’ if there’s nothing to back it up?

“It would seem all decisions are being made in secret from those who need to know, which obviously does not include the users, staff or public in general.

“It seems to me the Tories have forgotten that public consultation is a part of the planning process and that being secretive does nothing but harm.” when you are a public body with councillors and our MP who should all be striving to ensure they are truly working to our interest and benefit.