Worthing Library to be transformed into community hub, bringing various services under one roof

The aim is to safeguard libraries across the county as West Sussex County Council’s budgets come under increasing pressure.

The concept of putting public buildings at the heart of the community was launched at Worthing Library this morning, following a public consultation last year.

Debbie Kennard, cabinet member for safer, stronger communities, said: “We are investing in the library. We feel it is important to bring services into the one place, so we can strengthen the community.

“Obviously, we are going to make savings through closing other buildings but we are going to make sure our services are strong.

“It is about making a modern, flexible space as well, where people can come together. It will build a stronger community.

“Libraries are very vibrant, they are no longer a quiet place, and people learn in different ways. You want to make it buzzing. It is going to be a place where people can join together.

“This is such an interesting project. It is really investing to strengthen the community.”

Early concept drawings show how the three-storey building in Richmond Road, Worthing, could house children and family services, registration services and library services.

Consideration has been given to creating private spaces as well as quiet zones for those who want to study in silence.

Debbie said the Worthing scheme will be a pilot project with a view to creating similar community hubs in towns and villages across West Sussex. Each will be different, depending on the space available.

She added: “The plan is very fluid because we have to meet the need. We have the early concept drawings and now the project board will look at the detail. We have the overarching principle of how we are going to move forward.”