A library is set to begin a new chapter as part of a £1million project to help rejuvenate a County Durham town.
Newton Aycliffe Library will move into newly refurbished premises at the local Leisure Centre later this year.
The scheme, being carried out by Durham County Council, will see the transformation of a number of shop units adjoining the centre and the creation of a new shared entrance and reception for the library and leisure centre.
The work is part of a wider project to regenerate the town centre, creating a new plaza area and bringing vacant properties back into use.
Cllr Maria Plews, Durham County Council’s Cabinet member for leisure, libraries and lifelong learning, said: “We are delighted to be starting the construction of the library and new plaza area at the heart of Newton Aycliffe town centre. “Co-locating the library with the leisure centre not only means it is likely to attract more visitors, it will also be more cost efficient for the council.”
Once work is complete, the new-look facility will also offer residents the opportunity to make an appointment to discuss revenue and benefits queries with customer service staff.
Work has already taken place to refurbish the leisure centre’s swimming pool area and upgrade the changing rooms. The latest phase of improvements is now underway and is set to be complete in December.
In the meantime, residents can continue to visit the existing library on Central Avenue and there will be no disruption to services at the leisure centre.
Interior layout of library Birdseye view of the new look library