ISSUED ON BEHALF OF ESSEX COUNTY COUNCIL

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Essex County Council has proposed exciting changes for the library in Clacton.

Clacton Library would offer brand-new facilities and spaces as part of redevelopment plans submitted by Essex Housing.

Proposals include a new Adult Community Learning (ACL) centre, local registration services and space for the University of Essex’s new Centre for Coastal Communities.

The library redevelopment is part of a wider rejuvenation scheme in Clacton town centre. Tendring District Council has been awarded almost £20 million for the scheme with Essex County Council also supporting the project.

An event was held in July as part of a four-week public consultation, which ran until early August to include the community in the planning process.

Feedback raised during consultation included:

• keeping space for the existing museum

• parking

• space for community-based activities

• modern design

• traditional library resources

• traffic congestion

The feedback has been considered during the planning process, with Clacton Museum also forming part of the project.

Traditional library resources will be catered for alongside community space as part of a redesign. Drop-off points outside the library will also be available to help ease traffic congestion.

Councillor Lee Scott, Cabinet Member for Housing, Planning and Regeneration at Essex County Council, said:

“The library redevelopment is for the local community. We have listened to those who will be using the facilities and addressed feedback for the designs which have been submitted.

“The library redevelopment is a key part of Clacton’s regeneration strategy. We are excited to see the plans for the library progress alongside other regeneration work we are supporting in the area.”

Residents can keep up to date on the projects through the dedicated website. Feedback is welcome throughout the planning process. View plans and comment on the planning application here.

For Essex County Council media enquiries, contact press.desk@essex.gov.uk.