Plans to relocate Bromley Central Library at a new High Street location are progressing, as feedback continues to be sought from residents and library users to help guide this process.
The planned new library location is at the former Top Shop unit on the High Street, with plans having been advancing since this was announced in October 2023. The large new site will be able to rehouse the library provisions currently available from Central Library while also allowing for improvements, including a larger children’s library and attractive modern study areas for visitors to enjoy.
Residents are encouraged to provide feedback on various aspects of the library, with this feedback helping inform the new library design. Much useful feedback has already been received from library users and residents at Bromley Central Library, with the survey closing on Monday 15 July and further opportunities for consultation to come throughout this process.
Councillor Yvonne Bear, Executive Councillor for Renewal Recreation and Housing said: “This prime location in the High Street is the opportunity to secure the future of the library and bring it further into the heart of the high street, providing a highly convenient location for residents while boosting the local economy around it.”
“As one of the busiest libraries in London, we know how important Bromley Central Library is to our borough and to all who use it, which is why we are taking such care with these plans and seeking views from residents throughout this process. I thank those who have already provided feedback and encourage all those with an interest in the library’s future to share their views, so they can join in shaping these plans to ensure they are right for Bromley” continued Councillor Bear.
The survey can be completed online or at Bromley Central Library. Further details about these proposals will be shared later in the year, with the council’s Executive Committee then considering these final plans.
The council is also investing over £10m as part of a wider library repair programme for nine of the borough’s other libraries.
Ends
Editors’ notes: The current site for Bromley Central library forms part of the Churchill Theatre building. The council is continuing with its plans, announced last year, to ensure that a thriving, state of the art theatre remains anchored at the very heart of Bromley Town Centre deep into the twenty first century. Find out more.
For media enquiries, please contact James George, Senior Public Affairs Officer, on 020 8313 4565 or email james.george@bromley.gov.uk.