Purpose of the Briefing

Phase two of essential works are due to begin at Chichester Library to rewire and relight the first floor of the library. This follows the successful completion of phase one (ground floor) in July 2025.

We are taking this opportunity to redecorate and refurbish the first-floor library; replacing carpet tiles and repainting the main library public area and staff room/office space; creating meeting room areas; and refurbishing the library furniture and shelving. This will include a refreshed non-fiction area, teenage section, computer area and local studies section. The investment in this new look and layout will come from Section 106 developer contributions.

Chichester Library is a grade II listed building sited within a conservation area. To ensure that this project can be undertaken as quickly, safely and efficiently as possible the works will take place between Tuesday 1 September and Monday 14 December 2026. During this time, Chichester Library will be operating a library offer from the ground floor to allow for rewiring and relighting the first floor and the works will include 4 full closure dates on 7/8 September and 25/26 November 2026.

Background

Chichester Library is overdue essential rewiring works. The current system is life-expired which can increase the risk of fire and electrical shock and the lighting in the library is steadily failing and not fit for purpose.

It has been agreed that to prevent a substantial library closure whilst the works take place, the library will continue to offer a limited library offer from the ground floor of the library. Customer access to the ground floor library services will be retained and regular events such as Baby Rhyme Time and Knit and Natter will take place from an alternative local venue from September to December.

Latest Update

• Work will begin on Tuesday 1 September 2026.
• The Library Manager responsible for Chichester Library has coordinated a communications plan to ensure that inconvenience is minimised and library customers are aware of the limited service, closures and alternative options. Local residents will be sent an eNewsletter and information will also be provided on posters displayed in the library and on a dedicated webpage.
• The first floor will reopen on Monday 14 December and normal library services and activities will resume.

Yours,

Cllr Jack Lovejoy

Member of West Sussex County Council for Chichester North