Rescue plan considered for Hertfordshire music and drama library

A rescue plan is being considered for Hertfordshire’s music and drama library after concerns that it could close and leave local groups without access to materials. Welwyn Garden City Orchestra and Chorus conductor James Ross said some ensembles may shut down, while others would face sharply higher costs for music hire due to limited budgets. A report to a cabinet panel meeting on 14 July cites 721 orders for musical material and 342 for drama in 2025, placed by 162 music groups and 54 drama societies, and warns that many choirs, orchestras, and drama societies would be unable to continue if the library closed. Chris Lucas, the council’s Liberal Democrat portfolio holder for resources, said the authority is looking to work with Hertfordshire-based charity Benslow Music to maintain the collection. Labour councillor Ian Albert called Benslow Music “wonderful” but said the agreement details require further scrutiny before the cabinet makes a final decision, with no decision date set.