Suffolk Libraries is celebrating after Mid Suffolk District Council recently approved nearly £540k of funding to refurbish, improve and build a new extension at Stowmarket Library.
The council’s cabinet approved the funding following a Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) bid by Suffolk County Council, supported by Suffolk Libraries.
The exciting plans for the library will involve remodelling and extending the library to create additional space so community groups can use the library outside of opening hours. It will include an improved children's area, a new reception foyer, three new meeting rooms and a new wheelchair accessible toilet. The total cost of the bid and the improvement work is over £538,000.
Suffolk Libraries has been working closely with Suffolk County Council on the project since May 2023 when local residents were consulted on plans for the library improvements. Nearly 100 people gave their views which then helped to shape the final plans.
Bruce Leeke, Chief Executive of Suffolk Libraries, said:
“We’re very grateful to Mid Suffolk District Council for approving this funding which will help us improve what is already a thriving community hub. The plans will help us to reach even more people in the local community by providing a flexible, contemporary and inspiring space for all ages to use. It’s very exciting news for Stowmarket!”
Phillip Faircloth-Mutton, Suffolk County Council Cabinet Member for Environment,Communities and Equality said:
"We are delighted that Mid Suffolk District Councilhas approved this vital funding. Suffolk County Council is committed to enhancing local infrastructure and services, and the refurbishment and extension of Stowmarket Library does just that. The improvements will provide aflexible and welcoming space for the entire community, and we are pleased to support Suffolk Libraries in this exciting project."
CIL payments are a legal requirement paid by developers of residential sites which are earmarked for improvement projects to help local infrastructure and services keep pace with developments. For more information on the decision visit the Mid Suffolk District Council website.
There is currently no date planned for the start of the improvement work but Suffolk Libraries will be keeping customers and local residents informed when this is confirmed. The works will be scheduled to avoid as much disruption as possible and there will be a planting scheme to mitigate any lost green space and a living roof installed above the library’s new foyer.
