Leicester City Council has outlined plans to reduce costs by £2.1 million by restructuring library and community centre services. The proposal includes transferring 11 facilities to community organisations while retaining 12 sites as “multi-service centres” and keeping the city’s Central Library.
The council cited severe budget pressures, stating it must save £23 million to balance its finances. While job losses are possible, no specific redundancy figures have been provided.
Under the plan, several neighbourhood and recreation centres—including Belgrave, Coleman, Netherhall, Braunstone Frith, and Rushey Mead—could be transferred to external groups. Libraries in Evington, Knighton, and Rushey Mead, along with the Tudor Centre, Eyres Monsell Community Centre, and Gilmorton Community Rooms, are also under consideration for transfer.
With its library relocated, the St Matthew’s Centre may close, while the Fosse Neighbourhood Centre in Newfoundpool could be sold. The council plans to invest £1 million in the 12 sites it will retain, with five locations—including Beaumont Leys Library Hub and Highfields Library Hub—set to operate with staff hours 40 per week. Additional self-service hours will be available at select locations. Seven other sites, including Aylestone Library and Westcotes Library Hub, could operate for 30 hours per week.
The public consultation on the proposals runs until 29 June. Assistant Mayor Vi Dempster stated that while the services are highly valued, financial constraints require operational changes. She encouraged residents to participate in the consultation process.
A government spokesperson acknowledged councils’ financial challenges, highlighting a £69 billion funding allocation for local authorities across England, including a potential £35.6 million increase for Leicester City Council.
