Well plans were drawn up over 20 years ago as I recollect, but for a different site. A few years later, we thought the whole thing had died, then some years after that it was resurrected again for the current site. I have no idea of the political complexion of the council over those years. But it is the councillors who are to blame, not the library or even its executives. Time and time again I have seen similar things (though not as serious) with other library authorities, and it is always impossible to blame the libraries as frequently the advice of library staff has been ignored. And the ultimate decision is taken in the council chamber. But as we all know, politicians never accept the blame! And as you say, Lyn, I don't see an easy way out of this whatever the political complexion of the council or the government - that sort of money just isn't floating around any more.
Maurice