We, the undersigned, urgently appeal to the Director of Planning, Licensing & Build Control at Manchester City Council to consider a Compulsory Purchase Order for the Old Crumpsall and Cheetham District Library. This significant listed building, a cornerstone of Manchester's architectural heritage, has sadly been left in a state of neglect since its closure.

The library, which was transferred to Abraham Moss College in 1974 and also served as an Afro-Caribbean Resource Centre, holds a cherished place in our community's history and culture. Designed by John Henry Price, Manchester's pioneering city architect, it has been a symbol of learning and cultural exchange in our community.

Regrettably, after being left abandoned following an incident in 1999, the building has seen a steady decline under private ownership. We strongly believe that such a historic and culturally significant structure deserves a chance for restoration and revitalisation.

Our petition is not just about preserving a building; it's a call to action to safeguard a vital piece of our collective heritage. We envision the library once again becoming a vibrant hub of learning and cultural activities, honouring John Henry Price's legacy and enriching future generations.

We urge Manchester City Council to act in the best interest of our community by acquiring and restoring the Old Crumpsall and Cheetham District Library. Let's work together to prevent this local treasure from falling into further disrepair.

Your support by signing this petition is crucial for the revival of the Old Crumpsall and Cheetham District Library and for keeping our community's history alive.

A Facebook campaign, "Save the Old Crumpsall and Cheetham District Library," echoes the community's desire to preserve this local treasure. With over 200 supporters, the campaign highlights the building's potential to significantly benefit the community in Cheetham and beyond

History on the old library

Constructed between 1909 and 1911 by Henry Price, the City Architect, this Edwardian Baroque style building features red brick and white limestone with symmetrical bays and a central entrance lobby. Its design includes elements like a rectangular porch with channelled rustication, a round-headed doorway, and a semi-spherical roof. The wings of the building are adorned with modillioned open pediments and pilasters bearing the names of notable authors like Scott, Milton, Shakespeare, and Dickens. It also includes a lecture hall that could accommodate up to 200 people, making it a hub for learning and community events​.

The library was originally intended to serve the Crumpsall and parts of the Cheetham Hill area, with its memorial stone laid by the Lord Mayor, Edward Holt, in 1909. After opening in 1911, the library included a general reading room, rooms for children, special study rooms, and the aforementioned lecture hall. However, its role in the community shifted over time. In 1974, it was moved to new accommodation in the Abraham Moss Centre and later served as the Manchester Black Resource Centre. Unfortunately, since 2008, the building has been empty and unused