Shortlands Library in Bromley is set to remain closed for months or even years after an investigation revealed asbestos and a sink hole in the building, Bromley Council has confirmed. The library, located at 110 Shortlands Road, was shut in January after cracks were discovered in one of its rear walls. The council has now determined that two large trees at the front of the property caused subsidence, leading to the structural damage.
Investigation findings and cause of damage
According to a Bromley Council spokesperson, the trees are causing subsidence at the property, which has resulted in cracking in the walls, including areas where asbestos is present, and a sink hole in the floor. The spokesperson explained that the trees are so large they will need to be removed in stages to avoid damage to nearby properties and must be taken down outside of nesting season. This means removal cannot begin until autumn, and the process will take considerable time.
Only after the trees are fully removed can repair and refurbishment work start. The council acknowledged that the current library building will be unavailable for many months, if not years, due to the extent of the work required.
Temporary library and future plans
Since January, library services have been operating from a temporary location inside St Mary’s Church in Kingswood Road. Following the investigation, the council will decant the Shortlands Library site, conducting an air test to check for asbestos particles. If no asbestos is found, books, equipment, and other materials will be removed so they can be retained and reused elsewhere.
The temporary library at St Mary’s will also be improved, with a better library space being created at the church. Bromley Council is considering all long-term options for Shortlands Library, including exploring other potential locations for a library in Shortlands. The council has not yet provided a timeline for when a decision will be made or when the library might reopen.
