Plumstead library revamp gets go-ahead
Ambitious plans to transform the current Plumstead library building into a multi-functional library, leisure, cultural and sports centre were given the go-ahead after planning permission was granted.
The town hall says the project is one of the critical elements of the ambitious Plumstead Urban Framework, aimed at delivering the renewal and regeneration of the Plumstead area and providing modern leisure facilities and services for the local community.
Deputy leader and cabinet member for regeneration and sustainability, Councillor Danny Thorpe, said: “This is a substantial milestone for the project which is going to be at the heart of our longer term aim of revitalising the high street and regenerating the area under the Plumstead Urban Framework.”
The council said the design incorporates the historic features of the Grade-II listed library into a new complex which combines library, leisure and cultural facilities. It was developed after consultation with residents about what they wanted from the new facility as well as discussions with stakeholders.
The redevelopment will involve the internal refurbishment of the existing Grade-II listed library building, the demolition of non-listed existing extension to the rear, the redevelopment of part of the site comprising a two-storey extension to facilitate the provision of leisure facilities, public realm improvement works and cycle parking.
Jack Penford Baker, project architect for Hawkins Brown, said: “The combination of a sensitive refurbishment of the listed building and a high quality contemporary extension to the rear will provide a space for all in the community, and re-activate the library as a beacon for Plumstead.”
Work on the site is expected to begin in the spring 2018 and be completed by autumn 2019.
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