PLANS for a new library in Uxbridge have been granted permission. 

 Hillingdon Council’s planning committee last night (16) approved an application for the change of use of the Middlesex Suite in the Civic Centre to house the library, including its museum and archives service. It will move from its current position in the High Street, just 300 metres away. 

The initial scheme was revised following feedback from residents, to extend available space to allow more bookshelves and for extra dedicated spaces.

It now includes using the space currently occupied by the register office, which will allow for double the number of bookshelves. 

The register office will move to the floor below. The space it frees up will be used to accommodate the museum, local studies and archives service, as well as a dedicated space for tabletop projection and studying. 

Plans also include space for exhibitions and events, a learning centre and a dedicated children's library.  

The current library does not meet health and safety standards. Set across six floors and with no fire evacuation lifts, it would be particularly difficult for people with disabilities to safely evacuate. 

Uxbridge will remain the borough's largest library and now will offer hireable meeting room space and step-free access.

Cllr Eddie Lavery, Cabinet Member for Residents' Services, said: “We have an enviable record of library investment over the past 17 years.

“While many local authorities have closed their facilities, we remain committed to retaining 16 sites across the borough.”