Grimsby Central Library has entered a new stage of remediation works as the council moves to address asbestos and structural issues that have kept the building closed since March. The closure followed a water leak that created a risk of asbestos disturbance, prompting the full removal and storage of the library’s contents over the spring and summer. Approximately 157,000 items, including 94,000 books and extensive local history materials, were relocated to secure storage.
Specialist contractors are now preparing for a 12-week asbestos removal programme focused on the plant room, which provides the only internal access to the roof. Scaffolding is being delivered this week ahead of work beginning. Once the asbestos is cleared, engineers will complete a full roof inspection to determine the scale of repairs required to address water ingress.
The remediation project is a key step in determining the long-term future of the town’s main library building. While the site remains closed, a temporary pop-up library continues to operate at Freshney Place on Baxtergate, offering core services throughout the week.
Image credit: North East Lincolnshire Council
