PLANS to demolish Wath Library and replace it with a more modern structure have gone to public consultation.
The £8.9m scheme for the redevelopment of Wath town centre - which includes a new library - was officially rubber stamped by council officers last year.
The public space around the building will be improved and will include new play equipment.
Investment in the surrounding public realm aims to draw people into the town centre and provide more things to do.
The redevelopment will also include commercial space to support a vibrant mix of businesses in the town centre.
It will be designed to improve green spaces between Biscay Way and the High Street and encourage visitors into the town centre.
A report states: “The development proposes demolition of an existing library and construction of a new split level two or three-storey public library building with associated enclosed staircase to adjacent flats and public realm works.
“The site is in a highly sustainable location adjacent to Wath-upon-Dearne town centre and is close to a public transport interchange.
“The proposals will utilise existing public transport links and amenities by nature of its central location.
“The development will retain the same number of parking spaces (96) as the existing car park benefiting its sustainable location.”
Four public consultation events have already been held - with locals handed the chance to offer their views on the plans on each occasion.
“The plans and strategy were broadly well received, however points were raised that requires addressing,” the report added.
“The original client concept design showed a large cafe on the ground floor and library on the upper floors, which was carried through to the scheme presented at the consultation.
“The overall consensus of public opinion showed that the library should be reduced to a smaller kiosk offering coffee and complimentary cakes, muffins and the like, which would be more conducive with a library offering.
“In light of this the proposals were reworked, along the same lines and general proportions of the initial scheme, to reflect the opinions expressed in the consultations.”
The public are being urged to have their say on the final plans, with public consultation ending on August 9.
Coun Denise Lelliott said: “Our successful bid for government money is enabling us to put forward exciting plans to improve Wath town centre.
“It’s essential that you tell us what you think about the proposed changes to community facilities and public spaces.
“These improvements will be good for the local economy and create new places for people to enjoy, but they need to be shaped by you.”
