New library for Runcorn old town (From Runcorn and Widnes World)

Runcorn market to be converted into modern library

5:50pm Thursday 28th July 2011 in News Exclusive By Barbara Jordan

A NEW leaf is to be turned over as Runcorn old town library leaves Egerton Street after more than a century.

Plans to transform Runcorn market into a state of the art library are now underway after Halton Council has secured £750,000 funding.

Clr Phil Harris, board member for libraries, said: “We will be putting it out to tender in the near future.

“My hope is to see a start in the autumn.

“Hopefully, it will open in the New Year.”

Runcorn market closed in January because it was losing £147,000 a year.

The building will now be converted into a modern library and home for Halton Direct Link.

Clr Harris, added: “It will be better located for public transport and nearer to shops.

“The library will have wi-fi and internet access and customers will be able to return books and check items out themselves so library staff can spend more time assisting the public. ”

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