Surrey launches pre-planning engagement for New Library and Community Hub in Spelthorne

Comments are invited from the community 

Everyone is invited to provide their feedback on the proposed relocation of Staines library to create a new community hub. It is intended that the new hub will include Citizens Advice, Spelthorne Museum and Voluntary Support North Surrey together at the former Decathlon unit in the Elmsleigh Centre, a few minutes walk from the current library site. The consultation is open until 5pm on Tuesday 26 September.     

This pre-planning stage marks an important step in the development of a cutting-edge community space that will bring enhanced library services, resources, and opportunities to the residents of Staines and surrounding areas. The Staines Library and Community Hub represents a significant investment in the future, providing a place where individuals can connect, learn, and explore in a welcoming and inclusive environment. 

This work is part of the Library Transformation programme which began in 2019, when the Libraries & Cultural Services Strategy was signed off by Surrey County Council’s Cabinet. On completion, the Staines Hub will be a state-of-the-art modern Library and Community Hub, a dynamic place for the whole community to visit.  The library will be enhanced with a range of high-tech equipment to support a new programme of events and activities and the flexible space will allow it to host events for up to 100 people.  

Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Communities and Community Safety Councillor Denise Turner-Stewart said: “We believe that community input is vital in shaping the future of our libraries. The pre-planning engagement for the Staines Library and Community Hub presents an opportunity for the residents to help us create a vibrant, modern, and accessible space that meets their needs. We are committed to ensuring that the new facility meets the unique needs and aspirations of the local community, and this consultation is a crucial part of that process. We invite everyone to get involved and share their thoughts, ideas and aspirations for the new Hub.” 

The Hub aims to serve as an inclusive and dynamic space where individuals of all ages can meet, learn, and engage with a wide range of library services and activities. It will offer an expansive collection of books, e-books, and multimedia resources, along with computers, meeting spaces, and specialised areas for both children, young people and adults. Along with an exciting programme of activities, exhibitions and events. 

Feedback on the interior of the new library will be considered through a process of co-design at a later stage in the project. Residents will be asked to share their ideas and suggestions regarding the layout, services, programming, and other aspects that will shape the community space. Together with the pre-planning engagement, the feedback received will be instrumental in creating a Staines Library and Community Hub that truly reflects the needs and ambitions of local residents. 

To learn more about the pre-planning consultation for the Staines Hub and how to participate, please visit www.surreycc.gov.uk/librariestransformation  

To have your say, visit https://www.surreysays.co.uk/customer-and-communities/newstaineshub/  

The display information will be available to view at Staines library until Tuesday 26 September.   

There are several other ways to give feedback: 

• Via email: to info@newstaineshub.co.uk 

• By calling 0800 689 5209 

• Via post: to FREEPOST CONSULTATION REPLY 

Comments will be accepted until 5pm on 26 September 2023. 

Stay updated with all the latest news and developments by following Surrey Libraries on social media.  

Facebook @SurreyLibrariesUK 

Twitter @SurreyLibrariesUK