READING Borough Council has announced it is beginning a month-long consultation on plans to revamp Reading Central Library and the civic offices.
From Monday, June 26, residents will be invited to share their thoughts on the council’s proposals for extensive works which will seek to revitalise both the civic offices on Bridge Street and Reading’s Central Library.
Council plans would see the library on Kings Road incorporated into the civic building in Bridge Street, as the current building’s multi-level layout poses issues for users with reduced mobility.
An investment of £8.6 million will see a modern space created as part of the offices, offering an open-plan layout to accommodate a number of diverse uses with a focus on community engagement and embracing digital offerings.
It will also see improvements to the reception and customer services areas in the civic offices.
It follows a £20 million bid to the government from the council to rebuild the library and make improvements to the Hexagon theatre last year.
The bid was successful, with the government granting just over £19 million in Levelling Up funding in January this year.
The rest of the funding will go to extending the Hexagon’s footprint and create a modern, accessible space with connections to Queens Walk.
Both improvements are part of a wider initiative to create a “Minster Quarter,” which will also include the building of new homes in Central Reading.
Residents are invited to share their views on using the Central Library and civic offices online via the council’s website, or as part of in-person focus groups.
Schools across Reading will be invited to submit plans from students as part of writing and drawing competitions in the coming weeks.
Councillor Jason Brock, Reading Borough Council Leader, said: “It is our ambition to do everything we can to ensure that all residents, whatever their circumstances or background, can share in Reading’s success.
“Over the next 18 months, as part of this ambition, we are set to deliver a fantastic new Central Library at our Civic Offices on Bridge Street, which will offer a huge number of benefits – and designed with accessibility and sustainability in mind.”
He continued: “At the same time, we are also taking the exciting opportunity to completely redesign our customer reception to make it as welcoming and efficient as it possibly can be – a safe, welcoming, and accessible space for visitors and colleagues alike.
“We want to know your views on this major project to make sure the redevelopment best meets your needs and the needs of all our residents and visitors.
“I encourage you to take part.”
An overview of plans is available online via the council’s website: reading.gov.uk/NewCivicLibrary/
