Re-location at no cost to taxpayer if planners approve

The plans, announced by Ealing Council at its last cabinet meeting, will involve Ealing Central Library moving to a new, modern space within Ealing Broadway Shopping Centre, close to the current site.  

British Land, owner of the shopping centre, will pay for the relocation in full, meaning that residents will benefit from a modern town centre library with reduced running costs at no cost to them. 

The move also benefits the continued regeneration of Ealing town centre, with the space vacated by the old library set to be filled by a new shop.  

When completed, the new library will offer greater access to digital and self-service areas. It will have roughly 35,000 books and provide a range of study areas.

It will be designed to enable the space to be used, including for events, activities and adult learning classes. 

The current library will close for refurbishment in late autumn, with the new library opening in May next year.

During this period, a temporary pop-up library will run on part of the current site, where customers will be able to return and collect books. 

British Land will provide temporary study and learning space in the shopping centre between April and June next year, with further spaces across the borough’s libraries being added to support students.  

Users will still be able to access the 24/7 online resources, order books online, as well as ordering and collecting books from other libraries. The closest libraries are Acton, West Ealing and Northfields. 

The archives and local studies store will be relocated to the new premises in the shopping centre.

During this relocation period, customers will be able to order items for viewing by appointment at the new Local Studies Customer Desk in West Ealing Library. 

The council is welcoming ideas and suggestions on the look and feel of the new Ealing Central Library from people. You can e-mail newlibrary@ealing.gov.uk to have your say.