A new town centre library for Banbury is on the cards after the district and county councils agreed a relocation.
The current Marlborough Road site will be replaced by a more modern venue at Castle Quay Shopping Centre, as a result of discussions between Oxfordshire County Council and Cherwell District Council for a new, larger library.
The new library will be larger, more accessible and designed to better meet the needs of the community and the growing local population.
Following works to the site, the new library is expected to open by the end of 2027.
Cllr Neil Fawcett, deputy leader of Oxfordshire County Council, said: “Libraries are more than just a place to borrow books. They are community spaces that play a vital role in helping people in everyday life from getting information and support to a place to socialise.
“The relocation will transform our library provision in Banbury with massively improved facilities, including better digital resources, flexible study areas, and dedicated spaces for community events.
“The new library, which will be more energy efficient and environmentally friendly, will also be designed with accessibility in mind, ensuring that all residents can benefit from its services.”
Cllr David Hingley, leader of Cherwell District Council, said: “As a big supporter of libraries and their vital role in our communities, I’m delighted to be welcoming Banbury library into Castle Quay.
“This will provide a larger, more modern space that places the library in the heart of Banbury, which will be a significant cultural investment in our town centre and for our residents to be able to enjoy all the benefits a contemporary library provides.
“Through previous engagement residents have shown support for improving and regenerating Banbury town centre, and the library relocation forms an exciting part of our upcoming plans.
“In its new, central location, the library will add to the cultural vibrancy of the town as a hub for education, leisure and social connection. This move reflects our commitment to Castle Quay as a multi-use, community destination and to ensuring Banbury thrives as a place where people want to live, work and visit.”
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