Temporary library to open as bulldozers move in on existing building

Town councillor Louise Fenwick launched a petition which quickly secured more than 500 signatures in support of a temporary facility.

The existing library will close in December to allow for the demolition of the former college site by Tesco.

A new library at Peterlee Leisure Centre is not due to open until autumn 2018, and campaigners were concerned that the town could have been without services for nine months.

But yesterday Durham County Council confirmed that a temporary library will open in the new year.

Coun Fenwick said: “I am delighted that Peterlee will have a temporary library during the nine-month transition from the former college site to the leisure centre.

“Libraries are vital community hubs supporting activities and group for people of all ages and a town the size of Peterlee could not do without such an important service.

“I would like to thank everyone who has supported the campaign, as in the space of three days the council have gone from looking at options like outreach services and extended hours in neighbouring libraries to confirming that Peterlee will have the library and IT services they deserve.”

Grahame Morris MP, who supported the campaign, said: “It is important that residents attend the ongoing consultation by Durham County Council and suggest suitable sites within the town centre for the temporary library.”

An ongoing consultation will resume on Monday at Peterlee Library from 2pm to 7pm.