First stage of city library improvements completed

Improvements have been completed as part of the £61m City Learning Quarter programme

The first stage of improvements to enhance public facilities at Wolverhampton's Central Library has been completed.

The 1970s extension to the back of the library has been changed, providing two new first-floor offices, ground floor space for book deliveries, sorting and collections and other facilities.

Adult Education Wolverhampton's Alan Garner Building on Old Hall Street is set to be refurbished and remodelled and there are plans to create a two-storey building to connect it to Central Library's 1930s extension.

Work on restoring the front of the building and the roof of the Grade II*-listed library began in November.

The improved facilities will sit alongside a new facility for City of Wolverhampton College currently being built on the site of the college's former Metro One campus and land on the corner of Garrick Street and Bilston Street.

The first stage of improvements at the central library was finished as part of the £61m City Learning Quarter programme.

Council cabinet member for city development, jobs and skills Chris Burden said changes to the library and adult education facilities were "integral to our City Learning Quarter vision alongside the new college campus being developed".

"Together they will provide state-of-the-art facilities in the city centre and improve life chances for people of all ages through learning, apprenticeship and employment offers.

"The restoration and development of the Grade II*-listed library and Adult Education building will enhance the offer for current users of these services and attract new users."

Central Library and Adult Education Wolverhampton are continuing to operate during work, which is expected to be completed during the winter.