Liverpool Council reinstates funding for Dovecot Library
£55,000 grant secured for two years to support community library operations
Dovecot Library in Liverpool is set for a financial boost as Liverpool Council agrees to reinstate funding following a resolution of outstanding debts with Alt Valley Community Trust (AVCT).
The library, operated by AVCT on behalf of the council since 2014, faced a funding suspension last summer after a dispute concerning unpaid debts amounting to £82,500.
With a payment plan now in place, the council has announced a two-year grant totaling £55,000 for Dovecot Library’s operational costs, contingent on "clear targets" being met.
AVCT originally took on the management of Dovecot Library when several sites were transitioned to community management following a review of Liverpool’s library services to save £1.5m.
Though interim grant funding expired last year, council support did continue on a rolling basis until the financial disagreement.
January brought news that an agreement had been reached, allowing funds to flow back into the library, essential for avoiding permanent closure.
The council will disburse the grant in quarterly payments of £13,750, with assistance offered to AVCT in identifying future funding opportunities to sustain the library beyond April 2028.
Cabinet member for culture, health and wellbeing, Cllr Harry Doyle expressed satisfaction with AVCT's payment plan, underscoring the importance of library services within the community.
The resolution ensures Dovecot Library remains a vital resource for locals, pending ongoing achievements and future funding security.
First for all the latest news from across the UK every hour on Hits Radio on DAB, at hitsradio.co.uk and on the Rayo app.