Work to start on £2m library and civic centre

A new £2m civic centre and library in Whitnash has moved a step closer after a contract was agreed between builders Deeley Construction and the town council.

The project, which is being led by Whitnash Town Council in partnership with Warwick District Council and Warwickshire County Council, will bring forward a new building which will include a multi-use sports hall, library, community café, meeting room and offices for the town council.

The centre is being funded by grants from Warwick District Council, Warwickshire County Council, Sport England and a public works loan taken by the town council.

An additional £20,000 for external elements such as landscaping, parking, electric vehicle charging points and bike racks was raised through a crowdfunding campaign.

District and town councillor for Whitnash, Tony Heath, said: “A Civic Centre and Library on Acre Close has been a priority for our local community since it was identified by public consultation in our Neighbourhood Plan. I am therefore very pleased that thanks to the support from Warwick District Council, Warwickshire County Council and the efforts of local businesses and residents, we will soon have this vital multi-functional facility for the benefit of everyone in our town.”

The Leader of Warwick District Council, Cllr Andrew Day added: “A community hub is an essential part of every town, especially one as vibrant as Whitnash. This welcome new facility not only brings benefits to local residents, but provides jobs at a critical time in our recovery plan for Warwick District. Working in partnership with Whitnash Town Council we’re delighted to play our part in bringing this important and ambitious scheme to life.”

Steve Jones, estimating director at Deeley Construction, said: “As a trusted local contractor, we have worked closely with Whitnash Town Council and their partners to bring this scheme forward. For more than 80 years we delivered developments and engaged with community groups in Warwick District and will continue to do so to ensure the new civic centre and library respond to the needs of local people. We have been working on this scheme throughout lockdown and are looking forward to getting started on site in the near future.”