Relocation of Uxbridge Library
As part of our mission to continue delivering outstanding services in more efficient and innovative ways, we have plans for Uxbridge Library to undergo a modernised and climate-friendly transformation and relocate to Hillingdon's Civic Centre.
In February, the council's Cabinet approved the recommendation to relocate Uxbridge Library (subject to planning approval).
Benefits of the proposed relocation
Since the current building opened in 1987, library usage has changed.
The current library is spaced across 6 floors and, because there are no fire evacuation lifts, it can be particularly difficult for people with disabilities to safely evacuate. Relocating to a step-free, one-floor location allows people with disabilities to make full use of the facilities and, in the event of an emergency evacuation, all visitors can safely leave the building.
The proposed relocation will also help to deliver our climate change pledge, by saving 165 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions a year. We have received government funding to decarbonise the Civic Centre, whereas decarbonisation of the current library building is estimated to cost a minimum of £1.6 million and may not be viable.
The relocated library is expected to save the council £412,000 per year from business rates, utilities, cleaning and staffing costs, delivering better value for money to residents.
Facilities and spaces
The council's plans for an upgraded library will provide more features, make full use of the space available and improve the experience to our library visitors.
Facilities will include:
- study booths
- dedicated laptop/device charging bars
- hireable meeting space
- a dedicated space for the popular Tovertafel (interactive tabletop projections).
There will also be:
- exhibition and event space
- a learning centre
- a dedicated children's library (proposed as an enclosed space to reduce noise in the rest of the library and to improve safeguarding)
- a large book collection
- space allocated for events and activities.
The library will continue to provide computers that are free for visitors to use and have photocopiers and printers for public use. Public toilets will be provided, including baby changing facilities and a disabled-access toilet.
Our Home Library Service will also move to the site, and Local Studies and Archives will remain in Uxbridge.
Uxbridge Library - relocation and proposed floor plan (PDF) [6MB](opens new window)
Location of the new library
The proposal is to relocate the library to the Civic Centre, approximately 300 metres (a 3 to 5 minute walk) from the library's current address.
The relocation will ensure the library continues to occupy a prominent position in Uxbridge and, by sharing the Civic Centre's main entrance, which offers step-free access, accessibility will be improved.
There is also a bus stop opposite the Civic Centre, making it convenient to get to by public transport.
The library will be at the front of the building, on one floor, accessible through the current main reception and have clear signposting.
As part of plans to revitalise the town centre and southern end of the High Street, work is already underway on renovating the Civic Centre.
Uxbridge Family Hub and Uxbridge Adult Education Centre have already been successfully relocated to the Civic Centre. Moving the library too will help to make the Civic Centre a one-stop shop for residents.