Surrey County Council announced this week that they would not proceed with the second phase of movement to 'Community Partnered' libraries for ten branches including the Caterham Hill Library in Westway. This follows a lengthy and often heated debate over the last year.

The library will now remain professionally staffed and fully supported by SCC.

The decision was made by the newly appointed leader of the Council, David Hodge, at the meeting of the SCC Cabinet. He also stated that the first tranche, which includes Warlingham and Lingfield branches, would now get up to 20% of time with a professional member of staff.

John Orrick, County Councillor for Caterham Hill Division, says: "It's great that our Hill Library is off the 'at risk' list and I am delighted that our efforts have saved it for the third time. Let us hope that we hear no more threats to this much-loved and very well-used branch."

"I was impressed that both the Caterham on the Hill Parish and Chaldon Village Councils were ready to take on the fight to keep this facility open and am sure they are now relieved not to have to."

John Orrick also co-ordinated the campaign to ensure professionally staffed libraries were kept across the County. He adds: "While I welcome the news locally, I regret that the move has not gone far enough for the first phase branches."