A library in Billingham has recently obtained a prize at the Northern Regional Awards of the Local Authority Building Control.
The public building cost over £2.5 million to construct, and was the product of a design made by Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council. It used sustainable materials and could prove inspirational to builders in Cheshire.
David Rose, a cabinet member who serves on the borough council and has responsibility for regeneration, has told the Hartlepool Mail:
“The judges were impressed with Billingham’s Library and Customer Service Centre which is an attractive, modern facility, offering residents a host of first-class services under one roof.
“We take great pride in ensuring our new buildings not only look good, but are built to the highest standards.”
The building was constructed on a site that once housed council office space and an art gallery. The necessary building work was accomplished by a local company. It has been suggested by the judges that the library was in keeping with the continuing redevelopment of the town centre.
A multipurpose building, the new library contains one-stop shop facilities, enabling local people to access a range of services. The versatility of the library has been enhanced by the provision of new technology.
Other parts of the local government structure have opted to make use of the building too. For example, the customer services department of the borough council has been housed within it, while a housing group and the cash office have also been included.
