Work begins to bring Grimsby Central Library back into use
Roof repairs planned after asbestos removal at historic building
The next steps to bring Grimsby Central Library back into use are starting today, with scaffolding delivered to the site as preparations begin for crucial repair work.
The library, which closed to the public at the end of March 2025 due to water damage and concerns over asbestos disturbance, is undergoing a phased programme to make the building safe.
Earlier this year, around 157,000 items, including 94,000 books and materials from the local history collection, were moved into safe storage. Now, specialist contractors will start a 12-week project to remove asbestos from the plant room, the only internal access route to the roof.
Once the asbestos removal is complete, a full inspection of the roof will be conducted to assess the repairs needed to address water leaking into the building. Smaller leaks through windows may also need future attention.
Cllr Philip Jackson, Leader of the Council, explained: “Like almost all buildings of this age, asbestos is an issue and until this is dealt with properly, we cannot move forward with any plans for this building.
“The first stage will be the plant room asbestos removal, then the inspection of the roof will follow, with recommendations and action to deal with the roof repairs. Only then can we look at the rest of the building and see what we need to do to bring it back into use.”
While repairs take place, the library services will continue at a pop-up location in Freshney Place. The temporary library on Baxtergate is open Tuesday to Friday from 8.30am to 5.30pm, Saturday from 9am to 1pm.