Keys to old Nailsea Library building handed over to new owners

This follows the library's move to a nearby site on Colliers Walk in July, which was previously occupied by HSBC.

It would have cost the council around £1m bring the old building up to scratch so that it could continue to serve the local community.

The new site, which is more accessible and energy efficient, has already proven popular with local people.

The Colliers Walk library has improved digital facilities, which have been funded by the £27,595 from the Department for Levelling Up's UK Shared Prosperity Fund.

Sale of the old building has secured income to support future library costs, ensuring this valued provision can continue for years to come.

The new owners are welcome to refurbish or redevelop the building.

Councillor Mike Solomon, North Somerset’s executive member for Neighbourhoods and Community Services, said: “Nailsea is home to one of our top performing libraries which attracts around 67,000 visits a year.

"In its new space it is already thriving as a centre for children’s activities and community resources. 

“By successfully selling the library’s old premises, we have secured the funds to cover much of the new library’s 125 year lease.

"Our new premises are now more cost effective and efficient to run, reducing our carbon footprint and increasing opportunities to host activities that allow the space to act as a community hub. 

“We hope today’s sale of the old building will allow for an exciting future for the site on Nailsea precinct and that it will further benefit the town and its community.”

Councillor Mike Bird, ward member for Nailsea Yeo, added: “It’s great to see how well the new library is being used, especially now it’s accessible to parents with pushchairs and see all the children enjoying story times.

"I’m also pleased to see the sale and change of use on the old library has gone through, that it will now have the money spent on it needs and once again become an asset for the community.“