Transforming a former Nottingham library into flats would be a 'real shame' for the community, neighbours have said. Proposals have been submitted to create 14 apartments at the site of the Carlton Road Library, in St Ann's.
The application comes after previous plans were put forward for 11 flats, which was approved. However, additional roof space was found during investigations and three more units have now been added to the designs.
The plans have prompted a mixed response from some people in the area. Heather Buchcanan, who moved to the area from Scotland 20 years ago, told Nottinghamshire Live it’s a shame and would rather see something for the community.
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The 50-year-old said: “I just think it would be a real shame. A library closes down and it’s for the public. I just think it’s an enormous shame. Libraries are for everyone. I think it would be an enormous shame - we have enough flats.
“I just think it’s a huge shame when it’s so close to home. We need something that serves the community, a little hub for the community.”
Resident Sam Woodcock, who is 52, says she thinks the building is beautiful. She added: “I’ve seen them working on it. I don’t know about flats - I’d rather it’s a library. With this kind of thing parking is going to be an issue. I’ve driven past and thought it was beautiful. It's such a shame it has fallen into disrepair but to say that we do also need houses.”
The Carlton Road Library has stood empty since 2011 and was left needing 'substantial repair work' both inside and out after falling into disrepair. Under the plans, there will be four one-bedroom and 10 two-bedroom flats.
While some said it was a shame the library would be turned into housing, others had a different view. Zahia Amuz, who moved into the area nine years ago, told Nottinghamshire Live she thinks the plans are good. The 40-year-old said: "It’s a nice area - there’s the shops, bus station, pharmacy and good school.
“It’s a nice area and across from town so they wouldn’t need transport. I never used it - since I moved here I’ve never seen it open. It’s good instead of it being closed and empty, giving it an opportunity because people need homes.”
Another resident, Kayleigh Frazer, who is 32, approves of the flats as housing is needed. She said: “It’s better not to have it as a waste of space - why not? The area’s a bit hit and miss but I think housing is definitely needed.”
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