WORK to remove more asbestos from the Grimsby Central Library building, and carry out other essential repairs, have been approved by North East Lincolnshire Council’s Cabinet.
A report detailing the immediate actions needed to the structure was presented to his Cabinet colleagues by council leader, Cllr Philip Jackson – who has portfolio responsibilities for regeneration.
It recommended the start of a procurement exercise to appoint a contractor to remove materials with asbestos in them, along with other works.
Explaining the background, the report outlined how a Library Services Select Committee, which was cross-party, had been formed last year and had held several meetings before making recommendations to the Economy, Culture and Tourism Scrutiny Panel.
As is the correct governance, that Panel had then recommended to Cabinet that capital funding should be agreed to allow necessary work to the structure – preventing further damage.
The report further outlined how, over the last few weeks, asbestos removal had taken place. This had allowed access and more detailed examination of the roof – showing the lower roofs were in ‘better condition’ than expected. But the upper roof was ‘severely deteriorated’.
Professionals had advised that the roofs could be repaired sufficiently to allow yet more asbestos removal – allowing for more detailed surveys and the preparation of a full business case for the building.
The report also included how any heritage features inside would also be identified and preserved, where it was practical to do so. To support this, there would be liaison with the council’s Heritage Officer and Historic England.
Following the vote of approval, Cllr Jackson said: “As we look at the transformation of our town centre, we have always been clear on our commitment to looking at the future of this building, and this work will facilitate that.
“I would like to take this opportunity to thank the work of both the Select Committee and the Scrutiny Panel and it is very much hoped that both elected members and the wider community of North East Lincolnshire continue to be involved in shaping how we develop our town centre, for the benefit of all,” he added.
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