Nottingham Central Library generates £2.4 million in social value

Putting children and young people at the heart of its design, the new Nottingham City Council library includes an immersive storytelling room and different creative zones for a range of ages. The dynamic space also features an events area that forms part of the foyer and public cafe, art displays, a gaming area for teenagers, a dedicated children’s library, a teaching area, and a bookable 100-person meeting space.

Throughout the process, there was a strong commitment to investing in the local area. £2.4 million in social value was generated from this project, as well as over £62k through non-profit organisations. Further reinforcing community bonds, the project facilitated 24 hours of local school and college engagement, and 21 weeks of work placement opportunities. In addition, over 40% of the total spend was within a 20 mile radius of the library.

The library marks a further step in Nottingham City Council’s ambitious plans to create a modern and dynamic library at the centre of the multi-million-pound Broad Marsh regeneration area. It is a key element of the city’s Southside regeneration area and plans include a new ‘green heart’ on the former Broad Marsh site and a green infrastructure network linking Nottingham Castle to the Island Quarter regeneration site.

Overbury collaborated with leading multi-disciplinary consultancy Pick Everard, acclaimed architects FaulknerBrowns, M&E consultancy Chord, and Morgan Sindall Construction to create the library, which spans three levels, with glass balustrades and a suspended staircase linking two floors.

The library will officially open to the public on the 28 November 2023.