| Following the success of a funding application earlier this year, work is set to start on the next part of the transformation of the Grade II listed former Carnegie Library in Erith.
London Borough of Bexley and The Exchange secured National Lottery funding from The National Lottery Heritage Fund to complete work on the building earlier this year. The National Lottery Heritage Fund has committed £980,000 towards a £1.8m project that will transform the upper two floors of unused space into new community workshops for textiles, woodwork, print and ceramics. The main central hall will be refurbished for community-led activities, including markets, exhibitions, festivals, concerts and performances. A unique local garden will also be created by the award-winning garden designer Sarah Price, with much of the growing done by local school children and families. Cllr Louie French, Bexley’s Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Growth said: “Following the last few uncertain months, it is great to once again start work on our ambitious plans for Erith. The Old Carnegie Library is a great asset and the brilliant work The Exchange team and the Bookstore café have already done there has transformed it into a real community hub. “The team proved themselves to be an invaluable part of the local community during lockdown, setting up a food delivery service and providing support for those who needed it. Like the building itself, they are already a key part of the town.” Local Erith resident, Sarah Batten, Co Director of The Exchange commented: “At this very uncertain and challenging time for so many British towns – in which so many are fearful of losing their identity and sense of purpose – we are excited to be progressing with this next stage of works to the Old Library to give Erith something exciting to look forward to in the coming months and years. “The Exchange is building a new beating heart for Erith – one that all local people can get involved with – and that injects positive energy, skills and a genuine sense of pride and community into the area.” The work will be carried out by Dartford contractors GA Harpers. The works should be completed by early 2021. Find out more about the Greater Erith Programme at www.greatererith.com or follow Greater Erith on Facebook and Twitter |