£300,000 revamp for Basildon library "by Christmas"
Basildon council is splashing the cash on Laindon library, off New Century Road
Work is well underway on a £300,000 project to revamp the grounds of a south Essex library "by Christmas".
One councillor has said it’s seeing some residents discover their hometown had the service for the first time.
Basildon Council is investing into Laindon Library, off New Century Road, in the town.
Overgrown hedges are being removed, there's new paving and steps, ornamental gates are being relocated, among other improvements.
Council bosses say the works are set to be completed by Christmas.
Jeff Henry, Tory councillor for Laindon Park and Fryerns said: “It’s a good project and I am really pleased with the progress and to see it coming forward. It will create a more inclusive access to the library. People will be able to see the library, some people say they didn’t know there was a library. Some people didn’t know what the building was used for.
“We want to open up the library, it’s a great service with a lovely team and we want to make it look more attractive. It will give a clean, improved street scene.” He said the project was drawn up by council lead community groups to improve the area.
It comes as Sanctuary Housing is pushing ahead with it’s Laindon Centre regeneration project, with more than 200 new homes, a Lidl and 15 other shops. The site of the long awaited project stands opposite the library in the town, highways works are taking place and the latest changes to the proposed buildings are now approved.
A Basildon Council spokesman said: “As part of ongoing regeneration works in Laindon, Basildon Council agreed more than £300,000 funding for public realm improvements to the areas surrounding Laindon Library on the western side of High Road.
“The works will enhance the visual appeal of the area around Laindon Library, with improvements to the street furniture and green spaces nearby. Works are now underway and will be complete by Christmas.”