Northwich Library is to remain closed to the public until late September for stabilisation work and further structural investigations on the building.
The alleyway to the side of the library will also be closed for the duration of the work.
Cheshire West and Chester Council (CWAC) is currently finalising plans to fully refurbish the library to make it fit for the next generation, and considers this initial phase of work to be the start of a longer-term renovation project.
The announcement comes following criticism recently from MP Mike Amesbury that repair work that had still not begun.
Speaking a few weeks ago, the MP said: “It’s been known for some considerable time that this popular and much-loved facility is in desperate need of investment and the money has been allocated. We just need to see some action now.”
Meanwhile, CWAC said information gathered as work gets underway will help determine a long-term plan and the extent of renovation required to fulfil its ambition of transforming the building into a modern new library.
Northwich Library
Cheshire West and Chester Council has committed £2m to enhance the current library and turn it into a multi-use community space.
Northwich Library originally opened in 1885 with financial support from Sir John Brunner, who was co-founder of chemical company Brunner, Mond and Co.
The original building was damaged by subsidence and eventually demolished. Its replacement was built on the same site by Sir John Brunner in 1909.
Events and activities
Events and services in the building have been temporarily moved to new locations nearby and the Council is currently working on plans to provide a more stable location to accommodate library services in Northwich while the building is closed.
Cllr Louise Gittins, leader of Cheshire West and Chester Council, said: “Northwich Library is a valuable service in the town which will continue to be provided long into the future, and we have committed council funding to renovate the building.
“Before we can start this work, structural engineers have informed us that we need to carry out stabilisation work on the building and further structural investigations.
“Unfortunately, this means having to keep the building closed for this period and ensuring we can continue to offer library services in other locations including events across the town.
“We will continue to keep residents informed of how and where they can access library services in Northwich, in addition to the relocation of regular events.”
Alternative facilities
Alternative facilities are available at Sandiway, Barnton and Weaverham libraries which will be offering extended opening hours while Northwich Library is closed.
Online services, including eBooks, can be accessed 24 hours a day at www.cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk/libraries.
Any books borrowed from Northwich will be renewed during closure. Any holds to be collected from Northwich have been moved to Sandiway Library.
Summer Reading Challenge
Children can continue with the Summer Reading Challenge at any Cheshire West and Chester library and next week’s events have been relocated to Sandiway Library.
Plans are being made to re-locate events for the following weeks to more central locations.
Northwich Library relocated events and activities:
Monday 15th August
- Art for Wellbeing: 10-11.30am, Weaver Hall Museum (Annex)
- Gadgeteers with the Dogs Trust: 10.30am, Sandiway Library. All ticket holders will be contacted to advise of the change of location.
- Read and Relax: 2-3pm, Paradox Cafe, Northwich
Tuesday 16th August
- Story and rhyme time: 10.30-11am and 11.30am-12pm, Weaver Hall Museum (Boardroom)
- Digital device sessions: 2-3.30pm, Barnton Library
Wednesday 17th August
- Lego Club: 10am-4.30pm, Sandiway Library
- English Conversation: 10-11.30am, Weaver Hall Museum (Boardroom)
- Wellbeing Walks: 10.30am Led by ranger, meeting outside Northwich Library
Thursday 18th August
- ESOL classes: Northwich Workzone, Navigation Road, CW8 1BE
- Fun Science: 10.30am, Sandiway Library. All ticket holders will be contacted to advise of the change of location.
- Baby Bounce: 10.30-11am and 11.30am-12pm, Weaver Hall Museum (boardroom)
- Craft and Chat: 2-4pm, Weaver Hall Museum (cafe)
- Spanish Conversation: 5.30-6.30pm, online, delivered via Zoom. All members will be contacted by the group leader.
Friday 19th August
- Adult Colouring group: 10am-12pm, Barnton Library
