Artwork to Brighten Up Old Library Site

Artwork is coming to Reading town centre after councillors moved to secure the former Central Library building against intruders.

The library closed on May 11 and books and services were moved to the new facility at the civic offices in Bridge Street. The old building, opened in 1985, is now empty after the new library opened on June 18.

Councillors approved hoardings to deter intrusion, vandalism and squatters. They can stay for up to three years and some will be decorated with artwork while the council seeks a buyer. The installation and security measures were agreed at a planning committee meeting on July 22.

There was a request for ward councillors to be consulted on the artwork designs. Councillor Josh Williams (Green, Park) said: "I’m glad the security measures are only temporary. I was wondering whether the artwork that will be submitted to officers ahead of time, whether that could be viewed by ward councillors, not for approval, just so they could offer comment?

"This was accepted, particularly as the security measures were being requested by the council’s own property and assets department.

The idea got cross-party backing. Cllr Matt Yeo (Labour, Caversham) said: "If Josh hadn’t suggested it, I was going to suggest it, because it’s a good thing to do, but don’t hold up the process as a result of that.

"It’s our application, so we can make sure that the councillors are informed of what’s going on, I think that’s important."

There was also a question about why councillors needed to approve the works, as security for publicly owned buildings is permitted development. Marcie Rejwerska, senior planning officer, said: "I did ask them why they submitted this application, they said they wanted to be confident that they have all the permissions on paper."

The plans were unanimously approved. You can view the application with reference PL/26/0785 FUL on the council planning portal. Abbey ward councillors David Stevens, Mohammed Ayub and Jacqueline Dominguez will be consulted on the artwork.

The council is looking for a buyer after agreeing to dispose of the building in June 2024. It has asked that the new owner provide about 46 flats on the site, with 30 per cent designated affordable.

James Aldridge, Local Democracy Reporter