Calverley Library Relocation Confirmed

Following the consultation over the moving of the library in Calverley, we have today been informed that the council will be seeking to move forward with the proposal

70% of respondents to the consultation were in support of the proposal, with many commenting that the proposed building would be more suitable and have potential to be a more usable community space.

As noted before, myself and Cllr Craig Timmins are very positive about the proposal. We have had a tour of the building to see the ideas for the refurbishment and are encouraged by the opportunities the relocation would bring including:

more use of an underused building

improvements to make the mechanics institute accessible

better community facilities for the village

maintaining library opening times

meeting or exceeding the capacity of books on display

greater flexibility in library events and services provided

providing more space for community groups

better facilities for the youth club which uses the building, which we campaigned for

retaining the important local history centre

The relocation will bring a significant investment in the Mechanics Institute including creating level access into the building to ensure inclusive entry for all users, upgraded toilet facilities including accessible provision, and redecoration of the library areas to provide a safe and welcoming environment.

Overall the move would safeguard and boost a library service in Calverley well into the future, and protect a historic building which has stood in the heart of the village for 150 years.

In the coming days an application for change of use of the Mechanics Institute to include library services at the site will be submitted, and works will start on the design and technical specification of the new layout.

We have asked that the proposed design be made available in the existing library to allow people to view and comment on the proposed plans.

The council’s land and property team will now also begin to review the existing library building to identify the best strategy going forwards – which most likely would be sale of the building. We will be closely involved in these discussions to seek to ensure what comes forward respects local neighbours and the community as a whole.