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New Library for Walworth

16 January 2019

Southwark Council is honouring its commitment to provide a new library and heritage centre for Walworth and is today publishing a report that sets out its plans for a new library and heritage centre on the Walworth Road, prior to Cabinet Members considering the report on 22 January.

The council plans to secure units within the brand new Elephant Park development, on long-term lease from developer, Lendlease. If the report is approved, work to prepare the new library and heritage centre will start directly, the council will work closely with the local community and schools, to make sure that it meets the needs of its users.

The high profile frontage of the new library and heritage centre  promises to occupy a prominent position on the Walworth Road, adding to a streetscape of shops and restaurants, inviting both existing and new audiences  to the area and helping to make sure that Walworth remains a desirable destination for all.

In addition to essential services such as reading, community meeting space, children’s reading and rhyme time sessions, computer and internet services, to list a few, the new library will include space for heritage and cultural displays, creating an opportunity to showcase some of the Cuming Collection and celebrate Southwark’s great heritage.

The new dedicated heritage centre will host a rolling programme of heritage displays and educational activities for children and young people.  We will use innovative ways to engage new audiences in celebrating the heritage and culture of Southwark and use the centre as a launch pad to take our rich heritage across the borough.

Cllr Rebecca Lury, Cabinet Member for culture, leisure, equalities and communities, said: “I am delighted that we have been able to find a space that will truly serve the needs of local people. Its location on the high street is accessible to all, and will open up our excellent libraries provision to lots of new people. But this isn’t just about providing library services, and we will be working with local people to ensure that there is also a strong heritage offer available, celebrating our great borough. We want to ensure that the new Walworth library and heritage centre reflects local needs and I look forward to hearing the community’s thoughts.”

Cllr Johnson Situ, Cabinet Member for growth, development and planning, said: “I am delighted that we have found a permanent home for the library and heritage centre along the Walworth Road. We remain committed to ensuring the local community are at the heart of changes in the area and the new library follows the recent opening of Walworth Square.

“I look forward to visiting when it opens and hope local residents will contribute their ideas and join us in making sure that this new library and heritage space delivers for the people of Walworth and beyond.”

Page last updated: 16 January 2019

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