Nottingham’ s Central Library to start next chapter

Nottingham Central Library will not re-open at its current location on Angel Row since its closure in March following the COVID-19 lockdown.

Nottingham City Council said that while the progression for the new Central Library continues at pace as part of the new Broadmarsh car park, bus station and retail development, the decision takes advantage of the opportunity while demand for library services is lower in the city centre.

The authority said it will now use the time to prepare the building for transfer rather than offering a “limited service in a complex building with COVID-19 restrictions in place”.

Cllr David Mellen, leader of Nottingham City Council, said:“The delivery of new Central Library remains a key priority for the council. We have funds ring-fenced for the delivery of this scheme and in these difficult times it has been heartening to see the new Broadmarsh Car Park development emerge and the space for the new Central Library take shape.

“As we start the next phase of the works at Broadmarsh, with road changes underway in the area to create a more pedestrian friendly space, I can’t wait to see the new library open and for it to become a popular destination for people in the city, with what will be one of the best children’s library in the country.

“Following the closure of intu Broadmarsh, it is even more important that we continue to build the infrastructure and the confidence in this area to help lead its regeneration. The new Central Library, Nottingham Castle transformation and the New Nottingham College are key components for what will be an exciting future for this area of the city.”

Cllr Dave Trimble, portfolio holder for leisure, culture and IT, said: “I’m proud of the track record Nottingham has for investing in quality library provision, especially our local libraries that we have continually invested in over the last few years. Unlike many cities, we have continued to develop a strong network of neighbourhood libraries which is allowing us to now move forward and complete the new Central Library emerging at Broadmarsh.  I am excited about the designs I have seen for the new library and the positive feedback received when these were shared more widely with the public.

“While I appreciate the closure of the current Central Library will be an inconvenience, this will only be a temporary interruption in services while the Angel Row site is sold and allows us to complete the new library fit-out works.  Importantly, and in preparation for this change, we have been holding a number of job vacancies in the library service to help manage this change and this will help minimise any job losses.”