An architects image of the new entrance and extension to Gateshead’s Central Library on Prince Consort Road.
Major improvements to Gateshead’s Central Library have taken a step forward after Councillors granted planning permission for the £2.5m transformation which has been supported by an award of nearly £2m from the Big Lottery Fund.
A completely new children’s library and new facilities for a wide variety of community groups to use are just some of the exciting new developments at Gateshead Central Library. The work will include reopening the original grand entrance dating from the construction of the library in 1926 – a popular idea amongst current library users, a new café and new spaces for adult learning.
The plans were submitted for planning approval in July and following this approval it is planned that work will start in January 2009 with completion expected in April 2010. The library will continue to operate throughout the building works, but at times there will be a reduced service.
Gateshead Council cabinet member for culture Councillor Linda Green said: “With these improvements we’re looking after the past by restoring and reopening the original entrance, we’re looking after the present with new facilities for the diverse community groups in this vibrant area and we’re looking after the future with the brand new children’s library.
“Regular library users and people living in the area have told us that these are their priorities for the library and we are delighted to be delivering them as part of a new and improved Central Library.”
The designs for the redevelopment have been drawn up by Gateshead Council after extensive consultation with people in the local community and library users. Many of their ideas have been included in the plans.
A significant part of the development work will be an extension to the existing Central Library building. This will house a new light and airy children’s library to give a stimulating environment (something that children have asked for) and a new gallery space.
Teenagers will help create a dedicated space for young people specifically to meet their needs. As well as a host of new facilities, access to existing facilities such as the popular Sound Gallery will be improved. Many of the improvements, such as new and greatly improved signage for example, will be drawn up by working with sensory impaired people.
Gateshead Central Library was chosen as just one of four libraries in the North East to receive a share of £80m from the Big Lottery Fund. The grants will help to create libraries, which can reach out and meet the needs of their communities. Local people will remain involved in the running and delivery of library services once the building work is finished. Gateshead Council has also provided match funding for the project.