Trevor Bevins, Local Democracy Reporter.
An extension has been approved for a Dorset community library – adding floor space and a disabled loo.
The Friend of Chickerell Community Library in East Street say the works will create a fully accessible disabled toilet, a fire exit with a level path, a private room for computers and meetings, and an enlarged kitchenette.
Documents submitted with the application say the building is a well-used community hub but is restricted by the amount of space available.
The building was gifted to the community as the Peto Reading Room in 1890.
The proposed extension will use red brick, slate and woodwork to match the existing building which sits within the Chickerell Conservation Area and has been identified as a ‘non-designated heritage asset.’
According to the planning statement, the extension would create a separate room for computers, with internal bifold doors allowing the space to be opened into the main library or closed off for private computer use or meetings. The plans also include a new emergency exit to the front of the building, giving level access to the road via a ramp.
The layout has been designed to avoid the roots of a protected ash tree in the garden area, with a tree protection plan part of the consent.
The main entrance and primary library room would remain largely unchanged, although the children’s section would be moved away from the front entrance.
The Friends group say the improvements would help future-proof the building, support digital inclusion and allow the library to offer more community activities, including reading clubs, job-seeking workshops and health awareness sessions.
A consultation earlier in the year found that, of those who responded, 90 per cent supported the plans and 86.8 per cent supported a council tax contribution via Chickerell Town Council, which owns the building.
