Type=image;ImageID=3731;ImageClass=left;ImageTitle=The new entrance to Long Knowle Community Hub;TitleClass=strong;
Type=image;ImageID=3732;ImageClass=left;ImageTitle=The interior of the library area;TitleClass=strong;
Type=image;ImageID=3733;ImageClass=left;ImageTitle=The library is currently being fitted out;TitleClass=strong;
The hub is one of a number of similar developments across the city and will offer library, community and information services to local residents, all from under one roof.
Extensive renovation work has been carried out by contractors Interclass on the existing library and community centre building at Wood End Road, which has enabled an open plan layout to be created for the new hub.
Repairs have been carried out the flooring, ceiling and roof, a new kitchen has been installed and the building's ageing heating system has also been replaced during the work to create Long Knowle Community Hub - and it will be officially opened on Tuesday (8 April, 2014) at 2.30pm.
Earlier this week, Pendeford Community Hub opened its doors for the first time, while an official opening for Wednesfield Community Hub, which opened to the public last month, will be held next Friday (11 April). Ashmore Park Community Hub is due to open next month, while work on Low Hill Community Hub is now underway and is scheduled to be completed by the end of the year.
Councillor Elias Mattu, Wolverhampton City Council's Cabinet Member for Leisure and Communities, said: "I am delighted that we will shortly be unveiling this new community hub to the people of Long Knowle.
"We believe that by bringing important services like our libraries and community centres together under one roof, we can make them more easily accessible to our customers, as well as more cost effective for the council.
"This is especially important because the council is facing an unprecedented financial challenge - developing these community hubs has enabled us to protect our library and community services as much as we possibly can."
He added: "We've had a lot of support from local people for the new hub, and members of the community association were instrumental in shaping our plans plan. We hope that the new facilities will be a fantastic boost for the area and also enable customers to access additional services.
"I'd like to thank people for bearing with us while work has been taking place over the last few months and I hope they will agree that any disruption has been worth it."
Tony Bladon, Vice Chair of Long Knowle Community Association, said: "The building has had a complete refurbishment which has greatly enhanced the library and community centre, with improved facilities.
"A very big thank you should go to the contractors Interclass who have done what we think is a brilliant job.
"Thank you also to the city council for providing the funds to enable this work to be carried out; it should give this building at least another 20 years of life.
"We look forward to welcoming old and new users along to see what is on offer at Long Knowle Community Hub."
- released: Wednesday 2 April, 2014