Hale’s new library and community centre is beginning to take shape – and it’s hoped it will be finished by the end of the year.
Plans for the 6,000 sq ft centre – to be built on the site of the current bowling green pavilion – were approved by Trafford Council in 2019.
A new 3,000 sq ft library will be located on the first floor of the new building and the ground floor will provide accommodation for Hale Bowling Club, along with community facilities including new public toilets and a café.
The bowling green is being retained for use by Hale Bowling Club.
While construction is taking place, library services are currently located in the former RBS building on the corner of Ashley Road and Victoria Road.
New homes and commercial space are also being created on the former library site on Leigh Road as part of the development scheme.
The scheme is being funded by the sale of the site on Leigh Road and Addison Road, for residential development by Westshield.
Grahame Elliott, Chair of Hale Community Trust, said: “We believe the new library and community centre will contribute significantly to Hale’s economic growth while enhancing local community services which will include new community event spaces and improved facilities for bowling club members, residents and community groups.
“We are looking forward to working with developers Westshield and Trafford Council to create a new thriving library and community centre for Hale.”
Cllr Liz Patel, Trafford Council’s Executive Member for Culture and Leisure, added: “I’m so pleased that plans for a new modern library in Hale are progressing. This library will be an asset for Hale village and will be a really important community space.”
Patrick Waldron, Managing Director of Westshield, said: “As a local businessman I am delighted to be involved in a landmark development in the village.
“I appreciate the co-operation and support of the local residents who recognise that the short-term disruption will be significantly outweighed by the long-term benefits of the state-of-the-art library and community facility along with a prestigious residential scheme offering luxurious townhouses and apartments.”
