BOOK-lovers in Twyford are set to enjoy the benefits of a brand new library after planning permission was granted to restore an old building.
After three years of negotiations and redesigning plans, The Polehampton Charity announced last week that Wokingham Borough Council had agreed to the restoration of the Old School, in Polehampton Close, and a two-storey extension designed by Twyford-based architects Francis Sedgman.
The Grade II listed building will now house the library, a Thames Valley Police enquiry desk, and a meeting room for local groups to use.
Twyford and Ruscombe Local History Society will also move out of their portakabin, adjacent to the existing library, into a more permanent room inside the new building.
Twyford and Ruscombe Theatre Group, who currently rehearse and perform at the Old School, will be given use of a new space, while Twyford Parish Council will be allocated an office or file storage area within the new development.
The application also includes plans for new public toilets, a meeting room, and a cafe with covered seating area.
Mike Brooks, the chair of Twyford and Ruscombe Theatre Group said the group welcomed the development, even though it means they will need to be relocated while the work is carried out.
He told The Wokingham Paper: “It’s still very early days, and the planning permission is sorted we need to sit down and work out exactly what is going to happen and how all of this is going to be funded. I’m sure there will be lots of fundraising opportunities coming up.
“We have a couple of alternative locations in mind, including Loddon Hall, as we will need somewhere to house our sets and equipment, but again, it is still early days.
“It’s quite a long road to travel down, but we are excited and think that it will be a great resource for Twyford.”
- The Polehampton Charity are seeking sources for funding for Twyford’s new library and community centre. If anyone knows of an organisation that might be able to help, please contact Dave Turner of The Polehampton Charity on 0118 934 0143.
