Banbury Library is set to relocate to a new home. Earlier today, Conservative-controlled Cherwell District Council approved a change of use to the space formerly occupied by Marks and Spencer in Castle Quay shopping centre paving the way for the library to move from its current location in Marlborough Road into a brand-new premise right in the heart of town.
The plans have been almost universally welcomed by residents.
Banbury Conservatives said: “This is terrific news. The relocation will make the library more accessible and gives us a fantastic opportunity to enhance its offer turning it into a place not just for reading and learning but a community space with improved digital and community services.
It is also an innovative use of a vacant space. We know that bricks-and-mortar retail continues to face systemic challenges so it is important that we think innovatively about how to use our town centre spaces. The Council has already revitalised the former BHS space transforming it into a fresh cultural hub in Lock 29.
It is great to see the same creative thought being applied to other vacant units and we look forward to seeing the library become a modern facility that is well used by residents of all ages.”
