New library still empty with leaks and cracked windows

The new building had been scheduled to open this summer

A new Nottingham library scheduled to open this summer remains closed as it is plagued by "snagging" issues.

No opening date has been set for the new Sherwood Library, which has experienced issues including a leak, cracked windows and faulty fire access hatches.

Campaigners are calling on Nottingham City Council to “get a grip” of the delays.

Councillors have said they share the disappointment of residents but until the issues have been rectified by contractors, the council cannot fit out the building and set an opening date.

In 2017 the old library in Spondon Street, described by the council as one of the most popular in the city at the time, was deemed not fit for purpose and by 2020 a plan was drawn up to demolish it and rebuild with added commercial space and housing.

The old site, pictured here in 2018, had fallen in disrepair despite its popularity

The library building was handed back by contractors towards the end of 2023, but the council said ongoing “snagging” work to make sure the site is up to scratch was hampering progress.

Continuing problems include a leak in the main atrium and problems with the internal and external trims of the building.

The authority says there are also issues with fire access hatches and fire safety sign-off, cracked windows and the watering system for a living wall.

Problems have also been raised by the council’s highways department relating to areas outside the building which are not meeting adoptable standards, said the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

Des Conway, a campaigner for Save Nottingham Libraries, said: “I know when it rains very heavily, the rain gushes down the outside of the building, but also worryingly down the inside of the building, the foyer where the library entrance is.

“I think councillors need to get a grip on the situation as a matter of urgency.”

City councillor Sam Lux said: “We understand and share the disappointment felt by Sherwood residents.

“We’ve been pressing the developer for months to rectify several building issues which have prevented the council from getting inside to complete the internal fit-out.

“Once these works are completed, we’ll have a clearer idea of an opening date.”

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