Essex County Council have updated Shenfield residents on when their rebuilt library will be open for business. A series of winter storms and more rain than any building project deserves means the new facilities will open this Autumn and I have no doubt local people will welcome all that it offers with open arms.
Once complete, the project will deliver a bright, new modern library and commercial space, with nine high quality apartments for sale above.
Construction work to replace the old library commenced in October 2022. The previous facility was ageing and in need of repair, with high ongoing maintenance costs.
The scheme will feature a modern library which will maximise natural light to provide a flexible and usable space for the local community. A new public garden, outdoor learning and activity space will further enhance the library service offer.
The development is being delivered by Essex Housing, Essex County Council’s in-house property developer. Essex Housing was set up to turn underutilised public land and assets into housing and community buildings.
In the meantime, temporary library arrangements will continue to be provided a short distance away at Bishops Hill Adult Community Learning Centre in Poplar Drive.
Councillor Mark Durham, Cabinet Member for Arts, Heritage and Culture, said: “This exciting project will deliver a new modern library facility, which will benefit from enhanced main and children’s library spaces, upgraded IT and a delightful outside community space for residents to enjoy the refreshed book stock. We are also incorporating a number of low carbon technologies to reflect the environmental and sustainability credentials of the building.”
Councillor Louise McKinlay, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Levelling Up, Communities and Business Engagement, said: “The new Shenfield Library will be a fantastic facility for the community and I am delighted to see work progressing on site. Local residents will have access to the benefits of the modern library facilities and both indoor and outdoor community space.”
Councillor Lee Scott, Cabinet Member for Planning a Growing Economy, said: “I am delighted that Essex Housing is redeveloping this site to provide high quality housing and a new and improved library. I’d like to thank residents for their patience while work is completed and look forward to welcoming them when the library opens.”