Residents oppose new plans for The Northcote Library due to overdevelopment of the area

A library is to be transformed into a bigger community hub despite residents’ opposition.

The 1960s Northcote Library in Northcote Road, Wandsworth is being moved into a much larger building nearby.

Councillors on the planning committee approved designs for the new building.

Residents oppose the new plans for the library as they claim it will overdevelop the area and block daylight for homes in Bramfield Road, Halston Close and Northcote Road.

Town hall planners say the new library will be in a three-storey building set back from Northcote Road and will give residents larger and better resources.

The site will have a children’s section with buggy parking space, bigger study space, self-serve kiosks for book loans, upgraded computer areas and better restroom facilities.

The new site will be built on land occupied by eight council-owned garages next to Staplehurst Court and Chatham Hall.

Chatham Hall will be turned into flats – to pay for the cost of the upgrade – and have a modern site with better kitchen and toilet facilities.

There will also be a outdoor courtyard for educational and leisure use.