Design work begins on the renovation of Northwich Library

Design work has started on the renovation of Northwich Library, following the completion of initial repair works.

The Council is committed to the future of Northwich Library and recognises its value as a vital hub for the community in Northwich and the sense of pride the building itself brings to people who live in the town. The Council’s capital funding will be supplemented by £473,623 following a successful bid to the UK Government’s Libraries Improvement Fund which is administered by Arts Council England.

The aim is to create an accessible and welcoming Library and learning space. It is envisaged that it will include the Library, an accessible first floor hosting the Work Zone and flexible activity and meeting spaces for all. A design team is now starting work on the plans for the renovation project.

The scale and complexity of the works required means it is not currently possible to determine the full timescale of the project at this stage, but it is anticipated that the library will reopen to the public in 2026.

In August 2022, the age and condition of the existing timber-framed building meant that the library needed to be closed to protect public safety and allow structural engineers to carry out stabilisation work, structural investigations and technical surveys. Following this, in March 2023 immediate repair works to two thirds of the west elevation started. Repair works included safe asbestos removal from floor voids, replacement of floor joists and floorboards and replacement and repair of elements of the timber frame on the west elevation. Due to the historic nature of the building and its listed building status, the initial repair works were complex, and were completed in March 2024. Additional structural scaffolding will be installed on the final West elevation panel during late summer/ early autumn 2024.

Cllr Lisa Denson, Cabinet Member for a Fairer Future, with responsibility for Libraries, Arts and Culture, said:

“Northwich Library has always played a key role at the heart of the town. We are delighted to have now completed the initial repair works and be moving onto the exciting work of refurbishing and creating a library and learning space for the future.

“The work that has taken place to make the building safe to use has been a big undertaking, and I would like to thank people for their patience as work continues on making the library fit for future generations to use for years to come.

“In the meantime, the temporary library at Weaver Hall Museum is proving to be really popular, offering a varied collection of books, Wi-Fi and computer use, with lots of events and activities going on for people of all ages.”

Cllr Nathan Pardoe, Cabinet Member for Inclusive Economy, Regeneration and Digital Transformation, said:

“Northwich Library is cherished by the people of Northwich, and Cheshire West & Chester Council is committed to it, its historical features and making it fit for the future.

“Heritage buildings like the library have complexities and take longer to refurbish, but the Council is continuing with its comprehensive restoration. The Council’s approach puts quality first, and avoids stop-start work and more closures in the future.”

Northwich Library opened in its temporary location at Weaver Hall Museum in January 2023, while the library building on Witton Street is being renovated.

The temporary library features a curated collection of the latest fiction and non-fiction titles for adults and children, internet access via public computers and free Wi-Fi, plus a range of events, activities and groups.

There is also a self-service library option at Brio Memorial Court where books can be returned and more can be selected from a bespoke range.

Libraries at Barnton, Sandiway and Weaverham are open as usual, you can use any of our libraries to access activities, return/borrow items or use the ICT and other facilities.

Opening times and information about events and activities taking place at the library at Weaver Hall Museum can be found online:

Northwich Library | Cheshire West and Chester Council

For the latest updates on the renovation of Northwich Library, visit the Council website:

Northwich Library renovation | Cheshire West and Chester Council

Pictured - Internal rebuilt 1st and 2nd gable, new window frames, new flooring.