HARWICH Library is to move locations to the Harwich Arts and Heritage Centre until next summer while it undergoes a major refurbishment.

The library, on Upper Kingsway, will close on Thursday, September 12, and will open again on Thursday, September 26, at Harwich Arts and Heritage Centre on Main Road.

During that time, staff will be overseeing the shutdown of the library, before preparing the new location with study spaces, public computers and re-shelving stock.

County council culture boss Mark Durham said the “significant refurbishment” is part of the Government’s Dovercourt capital regeneration projects.

The £9m Dovercourt regeneration project also includes the Kingsway Plaza improvements, the demolition of Milton Road car park into a new single-level car park and the regeneration of the end of Victoria Street.

Space - The main hall in the Harwich Space - The main hall inside the  Harwich Arts and Heritage Centre (Image: Submitted)

Mr Durham said: “The project being delivered by Essex County Council in partnership with Tendring District Council aims to revamp the library and enhance local opportunities for residents.

"Public space inside the library will benefit from redecoration and new furniture, as well as energy-saving lighting, heating, ventilation and air-conditioning.

"There will also be more offices for the Registration Service, resulting in an improved service to customers.

Mr Durham added: “New space will also be created for adult learning provider ACL Essex.

“Residents do not currently have easy access to ACL classes, and by creating two new classrooms, the library can accommodate learning space.

"The classrooms will also be able to be hired for use, so the project will provide lots of benefits for local residents and groups."

The temporary library will continue to offer regular activities such as baby and toddler time, the memory café and coffee mornings, as well as access to public computers and learning materials.

Mr Durham added: “While we understand the closure will be disruptive for some users, residents can look forward to an improved library experience as part of the wider Dovercourt development.

Harwich town councillor Ivan Henderson said: “It’s a good news story as it’s all part of the Dovercourt capital regeneration project.

“There will be inconvenience but the main point is we will have an adult community learning centre now in Harwich which we did not have before and is something we needed.”