Lea Bridge Library’s new million pound extension is now open to the public, reports Local Democracy Reporter Josh Mellor The original listed building […]By Waltham Forest Echo

Lea Bridge Library’s new million pound extension is now open to the public, reports Local Democracy Reporter Josh Mellor

The original listed building in Lea Bridge Road, built in 1905, now benefits from a multi-use space and cafe, overlooking Friendship Gardens at the rear.

The library opened on 20th September and will be open seven days a week, with part of its new space available to hire.

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Cutting the ribbon, newly-elected council leader Grace Williams said: “This is a country where it’s been harder and harder to keep libraries open.

“Libraries are a hub for communities, somewhere that everyone can come, a place where people can access our services and just a nice place in general.”

The council’s ambition was for the library to become a “community hub” and point of contact for council services.

Money raised from the former Wood Street Library site contributed £600,000 to the construction, while a further £400,000 came from Greater London Authority’s regeneration funds.

Waltham Forest Council has been asked to provide more detail on the funding sourced from the former library site.

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