By KLTV Newsdesk –

Refurbishment of historic Walsh Building to create modern community resource

Plans to relocate Dewsbury Library Hub to a new home in the town centre have taken a significant step forward, with refurbishment work now underway at the Walsh Building.

Contractors Walter West Limited have been appointed to carry out the 12-week renovation programme, which will transform the building into a modern library setting for visitors to enjoy.

Creating a modern and welcoming space

The refurbishment of the Walsh Building includes improvements to toilets, new flooring and décor, rewiring, roof repairs, and the creation of a fresh and welcoming environment for library users.

The current Library Hub will continue to offer integrated library and customer support services during the refurbishment.

Residents can still access council services, digital and IT support, free Wi-Fi, and events such as story times, rhyme times, and Knit and Natter groups. Once the Walsh Building is open, these popular services will be available there too.

Supporting regeneration in Dewsbury

Councillor Amanda Pinnock, Cabinet Member for Communities and Environment, said: “This project is about much more than relocating a library, it’s about creating a welcoming, accessible space at the heart of Dewsbury that supports our wider regeneration ambitions for the town.

“The new Library Hub will be a vibrant community resource that’s fit for the future. It integrates library and customer support so that residents can access many services all in one place.”

Shaped by community feedback

A council-wide review of assets in 2023 identified the opportunity to refurbish and modernise the Walsh Building, creating a multi-use civic hub.

Public consultation played a key role in shaping the proposals, incorporating feedback from library users, community groups, staff, and local councillors.

Boosting the town centre

The relocation of the Library Hub aligns with the Dewsbury Blueprint, a long-term regeneration plan for the town.

Bringing the library into the heart of Dewsbury aims to increase town centre footfall and enhance the use of civic spaces, supporting a vibrant mix of public services and events.

Improvements currently being undertaken around the Walsh Building and Dewsbury Town Hall will make both the area and its public buildings much more accessible and welcoming to visitors.