Harwich Library has reopened following a £1.16 million refurbishment, with a special launch event planned later this month.

The refurbishment has provided a new space for Adult Community Learning (ACL) and community events to be held at the library.

It has created:

• 182 sqm of new floorspace

• two new rooms

• an updated, modern design

• a mezzanine floor

The improvements mean that the library can continue to support residents and help businesses thrive. The space is functional to support learning and the contemporary way people live.

The development will also ensure ACL is accessible to residents and continues provide opportunity for them to learn and gain new skills.

The library’s reopening will be marked with a special event on Thursday 9 October. This will include a ribbon cutting ceremony, guided tours of the new space and more information on the new services on offer.

Further special events, including author visits, will take place this autumn.

The refurbishment is part of a wider scheme of investment in this part of Tendring.

In 2023, Essex County Council (ECC) and Tendring District Council (TDC) successfully applied for £6.7 million to the government-funded Capital Regeneration Project. A total of £9 million will be spent on the Dovercourt Town Centre revamp, with the rest of the money being provided by the two authorities.

A number of additional projects are being planned in the area, including a new car park at Milton Road and new council homes in Victoria Street.

Councillor Lee Scott, ECC Cabinet Member for Housing, Planning and Regeneration, said: “This exciting transformation of Harwich Library marks a new chapter for the town. It’s a welcoming space for learning, creativity and community connection. I’m confident these new facilities will energise Harwich and become a real asset for residents of all ages. I look forward to seeing the community make the most of everything the library now has to offer.”

Councillor Tony Ball, ECC Cabinet Member for Education Excellence, Lifelong Learning and Employability said: “It’s fantastic to see the library refurbishment complete and ACL now in the heart of the community at the library. This gives residents access to new skills that will help prepare them for new career opportunities in the area.”

Councillor Mark Durham, ECC Cabinet Member for The Arts, Heritage and Culture, said: “Libraries are a key part of our communities. We’re thrilled that we have been able to deliver a fully refurbished, vibrant building. From it, we can continue to serve our residents with an exciting library service that will support them.”

News release from Essex County Council

‍