Doncaster: Demolition date set for city's central library

Doncaster Central Library closed in November 2020 and will now be demolished

A former city centre library is due to be demolished to make way for an open public space, the local council said.

Doncaster Central Library, which closed in 2020, will be knocked down as part of the regeneration project.

Work will start on 18 March and is expected to last until the end of September, a City of Doncaster Council spokesperson said.

The move would prepare the area for "future investment opportunities", they added.

After 51 years of operating, Doncaster Central Library in Waterdale shut in November 2020 to make way for the Danum Gallery, Library and Museum.

The city council said work to demolish the building was being funded as part of the National Levelling Up Fund scheme, and would take up to 14 weeks.

Mayor of Doncaster Ros Jones said the work was part of the next phase of regenerative work in the Waterdale area which would complement the city's Civic and Cultural Quarter.

Ms Jones said: "This is the beginning of a new era for the Waterdale area, with a new space bringing with it a tidier, greener and fresher look which we believe will help attract both further investment and help local businesses in the nearby area.

"The central library was open for over 50 years in our city and is a historic building for many of our residents, but we are committed to regenerating and improving our city centre."

The council warned traffic diversions would be in place and pedestrian access through the Waterdale area restricted while work was under way.