Peterborough’s £6 million Central Library revamp might close take up to two years to complete
The £6 million project to revamp Peterborough Central Library could take up to two years to complete, it has been revealed.
A planning application seeking approval for a temporary change of use of part of Northminster House so it can become a public library, states the alteration is envisaged to last for 24 months.
Council chiefs want to use part of Northminster House to provide library services while the Central Library in Broadway is closed as work takes place to make it a a modern new library and education space.
When the council announced in July it intended to revamp the library, it stated the works would start in December and last 12 months.
Central Library is due to close towards the end of October, at which point a library service will be provided from Northminster House.
Councillor Shabina Qayyum, council leaderl, said: "The Central Library refurbishment will transform what is a very outdated library into a modern library building that our residents and visitors can enjoy.
"We know how important it is to have an alternative city centre location for the library whilst the works are taking place and that is why we have selected Northminster House which is just a short walk away.
"The planning application has now been submitted, requesting use of the site for two years.
"However, that does not mean the library will be relocated for this length of time.
"The refurbishment of the library is expected to take 12 months, but there will need to be time either side of this to move library stock to the new location and then to move it back to Central Library.
" Permission to use this site for two years has therefore been requested to ensure there is more than enough time to complete the project."
The application, which has been submitted by property agents Savills on behalf of the local authority, states it seeks temporary planning permission for the change of use of the 500 square metres ground floor east wing of Northminster House from office to a public library for a temporary period of 24 months.
A covering letter with the application adds: “This proposal allows members of the public to access library services during the refurbishment of the Central Library at Broadway.
"The premises would revert to office use within 24 months.
"No external or internal structural alterations are proposed. The library fit out will comprise moveable furniture and shelving only.
“The proposed use will accommodate the services currently provided by Peterborough Central Library during the refurbishment of that building as part of ‘The Vine’ project.
"Upon completion of the refurbishment works, the library will return to its permanent home at Broadway and the ground floor east wing of Northminster will revert to its existing office use.
After the revamp, the library will be part of the Vine cultural hub that also includes Peterscourt in City Road and the former railway Goods Shed on Fletton Quays.
A council spokesperson said that there would need to be time either side of the works to move library stock to the Northminster and then back to Central Library.
"Permission to use this site for two years has been requested to ensure there is more than enough time to complete the project.”