Library to get a six storey face lift if plans approved

Volunteers and staff at Donald Hope Library in Colliers Wood have welcomed plans for 60 apartments and a brand new three storey library on the lower floors.

Objections have been raised from neighbours over the height of the building and the impact of the work on the High Street.

An artists' impression of the new development. Pictures: Rocco Homes

Kevin Godding, chairman of the Colliers Wood Residents' Association said residents are concerned about the height of the building.

He said: "As far as the facilities are concerned, it is great news.

"There is concern about the height of it - we would prefer it to be five storeys."

Urbanicity, advised by Indigo Planning has submitted a planning application to Merton Council for one, two and three bedroom ‘luxury’ apartments on the upper floors with commercial premises on the ground floor next to a library to replace the current one.

Presentations of the plans late last year estimated the application would have been heard at the November planning committee meeting, and work was due to start in the New Year.

But the committee has yet to discuss the application.

The council planning committee is now expected to decide whether to grant permission in the next couple of months.

Keith Spears, who lives in Cavendish Road, Colliers Wood and volunteers at the library, said: "We have been delighted with the plans for a new library.

"There will be more space with three different levels, including a mezzanine level and public toilets, the lack of which is an on-going issue."

Rupert Clarke, owner of Urbanicity said: "We are really eager to begin work to help regenerate Colliers Wood town centre and provide its residents with a new and improved library facility.

"We are fully aware of the importance of this building to the wider community and hope that the development will create a space that will be used by many generations to come and act as a catalyst for further improvements in the area."