The Future of the Cricklewood and Kensal Rise Libraries (Update)

Brent Council closed the Cricklewood and Kensal Rise Libraries in the spring of 2012, at which time ownership of the two buildings reverted by law to All Souls College. The College had no part in and regretted the closure decisions, and as a result took steps to facilitate the continued provision of library services in both communities. The College has sold both buildings to a commercial developer on condition that a certain amount of space in each building is leased on a rent-free basis for 999 years to enable continued provision of library services to the residents of both Cricklewood and Kensal Rise once the development has been completed.
The College hopes that the Friends of Cricklewood and Kensal Rise Libraries will become the operators of these new library facilities and plans to offer both groups leases which will also be rent-free. The College has retained long-term control over the space allocated to it in each building so that it cannot be changed from the provision of library services without its permission.
Note: This statement replaces others  made previously on the All Souls College website.