Councils join forces to progress new library for Woodstock
Residents in and around Woodstock can look forward to a new, modern library and community hubs on the site of the former library, with plans announced by Oxfordshire County Council and West Oxfordshire District Council today.
Since the closure of the original library, a temporary one has been provided at the Oxfordshire Museum.
Under new plans, work will begin to create a fresh, new modern library, which will provide a welcoming community space for residents.
Oxfordshire County Council and West Oxfordshire District Council will look to form a partnership of local stakeholders to inform and support the project. They will also look to engage and consult the wider community in the process making sure local needs are at the heart of future plans.
In a joint statement, Councillor Neil Fawcett, Deputy Leader of Oxfordshire County Council, and Councillor Andy Graham, Leader of West Oxfordshire District Council, said: “We are delighted to announce that following a recent site visit, we have agreed to combine our efforts and accelerate plans for a new library and community hub for the residents of Woodstock on the former Hensington Road library site.
“Since the library closed in 2018 due to structural issues, the cleared site has remained behind fencing for far too long. While the temporary library at the Oxfordshire Museum has continued to provide an important service since December 2018, its location and capacity inevitably limit what can be offered to residents.
“Whilst a number of studies have already explored the potential of the site, we are clear that Woodstock deserves a modern, future ready library that not only meets changing needs but also has the potential to bring together a wider range of community services under one roof.
“To drive this project forward, we have asked senior officers to set-up a working-group, which we will co-chair to move as quickly as possible through feasibility, design, funding, planning and building of this exciting new hub.
“Woodstock residents have been incredibly patient during this period of uncertainty, and we will ensure they are central to the overall vision and delivery.
“There is significant work ahead and important challenges to overcome, but as councils working together with Blenheim Palace (who currently own the old police station) – we are making our intent clear.
“This represents an exciting, innovative and sustainable future for Woodstock.”
The news forms part of an ongoing project to update Oxfordshire’s libraries, with a number of other local communities already benefitting from upgrades to modernise and improve accessibility.
This is helping to provide communities with a welcoming, accessible community hub where people can meet, access services, take part in activities and feel connected.
Find out more about Oxfordshire’s libraries have to offer by visiting Oxfordshire County Council’s website.