A lease on the purpose-built Ladies Walk Health Centre and Library expires in March 2026 and no deal has been done to secure it’s continued use.

The uncertainty is causing concern for people fearing it will be closed for redevelopment, which has led to calls for drastic action. 

Sedgley councillor Shaun Keasey said: “It seems ridiculous to me that a purpose-built facility – ultimately funded by taxpayers – could be at risk of closure after just 25 years.

“We are a large metropolitan council, and we need to use that strength to protect Ladies Walk Health Centre and Library. 

“If the landlord won’t play ball, we must look seriously at using compulsory purchase powers to safeguard this site.” 

Dudley MP Sonia Kumar is also worried and says she has written to the owner of the site twice but is yet to get a reply. Dudley Council says it is in talks with the owner’s agent but could not give any commitment that services will stay at the site. 

Councillor Patrick Harley, leader of the council, said: “Along with our healthcare partners we are committed to doing all we can to maintain library and health services in Sedgley. 

“We are exploring three options and would prefer for the facilities to remain at Ladies Walk. Failing that, we will be looking to secure a building in Sedgley for the library to move to. 

“We will continue talking to our health partners about the possibility of co-location and co-operation to this end.” 

Meanwhile a campaign demanding action is gathering pace, Ms Kumar is running an online petition which has already attracted more than 500 signatures. The MP is also holding a day of action in Sedgley on Saturday May 3 starting at 12.30pm at the library. 

Ms Kumar said: “This service is vital, my concern is NHS services would be lost in Sedgley. 

“The place could not be relocated anywhere else – to build another building like this will take too long and it is just not going to happen, relocation is just not a viable option.” 

The former NHS physiotherapist turned politician added removal of health services, forcing people to travel further, would put a barrier in the way and possibly stop them from accessing vital treatment. 

Ms Kumar said: “It really is the heart of Sedgley, do I think the council should purchase it? Yes. How they do that I would leave up to them.” 

Cllr Harley said: “We do not have any definitive answers or timescales at the moment but can assure residents we are doing all we can to resolve this. “We will keep them informed every step of the way.”