A former council library, now managed by a community radio station and run by local volunteers, has reportedly been without heating for what’s thought to be “weeks” - despite being listed as a ‘Warm Welcome Space’.
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As previously reported, Southampton City Council announced community radio station Awaaz FM as the new operator of Cobbett Road Library in January 2024.
Library services duly recommenced on a part-time basis at the end of that month for the first time in three years, with opening times gradually increased.
But the Friends of Cobbett Road Library sent a warning email to users on Sunday, saying that the main heating system is not operating.
The Friends said that there are some portable electric heaters in use, but that they are “not sufficient to achieve the temperatures you are used to at this time of year”.
“Until the problems are resolved, please ensure you are wearing warm clothes for visiting the Library. Please do NOT bring your own heater!”
Awaaz FM has been approached for comment on the cause of the issue and when it will be resolved. We’ll update the story if they respond.
Bitterne Park ward councillors Amanda Barnes-Andrews and Phil Webb with Ali Beg from Awaaz FM and Greg Dickson and Felix Pastor from Fiesta FM at Cobbett Road library, at a press call when the reopening of the library was announced in 2024. Photo: SCC
A spokesperson for Southampton City Council told bitternepark.info: “We are very sorry it’s so cold at Cobbett Road at the moment and the distressing effect this is having on those in the building. The volunteers and users have reached out to us and we updated them on the actions we are taking over the weekend.”
They continued: “We are working with utility companies to get the supply and boilers recommissioned as quickly as possible but it is proving administratively complicated. There are a small number of electric heaters in the building and we are seeking further temporary and safe heating options while this is being rectified.”
Ironically, the library is listed as a venue on the Warm Welcome website, a campaign that started as a “crisis response to keep people warm through winter”, but which says has now “blossomed into a movement to reconnect individuals and communities across the country all year round”.
Update 3/11/25 The council has reportedly now supplied three oil-filled radiators which can be left on even when the building is unoccupied, and two fan heaters to help ensure ensure the building doesn't get too cold.