THE first phase of conservation and repair works has been completed on Northwich Library.

The grade II listed building has undergone substantial structural repairs to stabilise and extend the lifespan of the building.

In conjunction with Qwest Services and ENGIE, the council has replaced structural timber members, replaced corroded iron fixings with stainless steel fixings and rebuilt brick infill panels.

Cllr Sam Naylor, Cheshire West and Chester Council member, said: “This has been something myself and fellow Cllr Paul Dolan have backed for some time.

“It’s fantastic to see the first phase of work has completed and we’re now well on the way to seeing this iconic building back to its best.

“Not only is it in much better condition, visiting numbers are up as well, which shows how important the library is to the town.

“It will take a while for the project to be completed but we are definitely moving in the right direction.

“It’s steeped in history, and there was a time when it was considered to knock down the library.

“It’s here to stay and Northwich is all the better for it.”