The Relocation of Hatfield Library
Hertfordshire County Council commissioned the relocation of Hatfield Library situated of the edge of the town, to a central position in the town-centre. The empty units in the centre of town were in a dilapidated condition and the renovation works have transformed the building. The move has driven footfall to the town, supporting current work to transform the public space in White Lion Square under regeneration plans. The new location will give library more capacity to support events and children’s activities, including a CreatorSpace to help people of all ages come together to learn and practice new skills and experience new technologies.
Our Senior Building Control Surveyor Michael Joseph oversaw the Building Regulations process from plan checking, to site inspections through to completion. The contractor had a very tight contract programme. Issues such as means of escape, location of cavity barriers, fire detection and alarm system and compartment where agreed on site in order to enable building works to progress on site without delay. The fire safety provisions were subsequent approved by the Fire Authority without any additional requirements. As a result of working closing with the contractor a good rapport was quickly established to facilitate the smooth running of the project
Paula Phillips, Library Manager said
“Membership has increased since the new library opened in December and we are set to expand our social group activities this year. In fact our events over half term have sold out! We have had really positive feedback from our customers and there is good vibe about the library. The layout of the new facility enables an easier flow of people and the access for disability groups works much better in our new building. We’re looking forward to the coming year and feel that we are really becoming the hub of the community!”