Essex County Council plans to knock to Loughton Library and use the site for up to 38 new homes and a new library facility.

The project, led by Essex Homes, promises to replace the 1970s-built library in Trapps Hill, which the council says “will soon require extensive and costly maintenance”, with a brand-new library.

The county council says money made from the homes will allow the authority to deliver the new library “at net zero cost to residents”.

Independent Loughton councillor Stephen Murray is calling on residents to get involved and have their voices heard.

He said: “I would urge you [residents] to take part this consultation process and let them know your views and feelings about their proposals.

“Our libraries are important community assets, please take part and feedback your views.

“The outcome will become our town’s library facility for the next 30-40 years.”

Proposals for the new library include plans for a sensory wall, mother and baby facilities and library meeting areas. The creation of a new ‘public outdoor learning and activity space’ and new planting and green spaces.

Cllr Louise McKinlay, cabinet member for community, equality, partnerships and performance, said: “This is an exciting project that would create a modern community asset to support our ambition to grow and develop the library service in Loughton. The consultation is a key milestone in the project, providing residents with an opportunity to shape the design and ensure the new library is reflective of their needs. It brings with it opportunities to further improve and enhance the library offer.”

Cllr Lesley Wagland OBE, cabinet member for economic renewal, infrastructure and planning, added: “This scheme is a great example of how combining residential development with the re-provision of an important local asset will help to deliver a new library at no cost to the public purse, whilst helping to address the demand for high-quality housing for Essex residents.”

The public consultation is now open, running until midnight on Sunday, August 1.

An online meeting will take place on Monday, July 12 at 6.30pm with a presentation on the project and the opportunity to submit written questions and receive responses from the scheme architects, Essex County Council cabinet members and Essex Housing team.

Public exhibitions where the plans can be viewed in person will also take place at on Thursday, July 22 3pm – 7pm and Saturday, July 24 11am- 2pm at Loughton Library.