KILLYLEAGH Library is in line for a major upgrade.
A feasibility study is being compiled on future options for the High Street facility which successfully fought off a controversial closure proposal in 2011 with the backing of the community and local politicians.
Future options which are being examined include the internal renovation of the building, demolishing the current facility and rebuilding and constructing a new library on a different site.
News that plans are being drawn up to upgrade the library have been confirmed by Strangford MLA Peter Weir who has welcomed what he described as a “very constructive meeting” to discuss the way forward.
Last week’s meeting included members of the Killyleagh Community Association and a representative of Libraries NI to discuss future capital development at the popular library.
Describing the facility as a “fantastic, well run community asset”, Mr Weir said it was particularly beneficial for a range of functions throughout the pandemic.
But he explained that the building’s facade is an “eyesore and in desperate need of regeneration”.
Mr Weir continued: “It is welcome that there is a clear commitment on behalf of the Department of Education to prioritise Killyleagh library for redevelopment.
“Officials are currently completing a feasibility study which looks at the three options of internal renovation, demolition and rebuild, or building a new library on a new site.”
Mr Weir said it is clear to him that retaining the current High Street building is likely to be the most sustainable solution moving forward.
“The feasibility study is largely technical in nature and due to complete in March and will then lead on to a business case being developed,” he explained.
“The business case is likely to take until the end of the year to complete and will evaluate not simply the financial position, but also non-monetary benefits.
“This is an ideal opportunity for community discussion to be at the heart of the process, in shaping the future of the library and I believe that this is something that Libraries NI will embrace.”
The Strangford MLA also highlighted the importance of not having to wait for a final capital solution before anything can happen at the library.
He said it was impressed upon the Libraries NI representative during last week’s meeting that remedial action is required to improve the appearance of the front of the building with agreement that this particular issue would be pursued.
“While movement will take some time, I am heartened that progress on this key community facility is moving positively in the right direction,” added Mr Weir.
Rowallane councillor Billy Walker said the library was at the heart of the Killyleagh community and that any proposal to improve it was more than welcome.
“Three options are being pursued which shows the commitment to the facility and I would agree that an upgrade to the building is long overdue,” he continued.
“There was overwhelming support to fight off a proposal to close the library in 2011 and many will be delighted that the future of the library is again being discussed, only this time for all the right reasons.”
Cllr Walker said he looked forward to seeing the outcome of the feasibility study and thanked Mr Weir for his commitment and support for Killyleagh Library.