Transforming Bromley’s libraries

Bromley Central Library is one of the busiest libraries in London.

In 2022/23, Bromley libraries issued the highest number of books in London, and Central Library received over 350,000 visitors.

Central Library will soon become even more convenient for visitors through its relocation from the Churchill Theatre building to a vacant former Topshop unit in the heart of the high street, so the service can continue to thrive.

The move of the Central Library is proceeding after approval by the Council’s Executive Committee and will take place in 2026 following a full refurbishment of the building. These works will deliver a larger children’s library, extensive study and work space, a new local studies room, and bookable meeting rooms for events to support local groups and businesses. The new library will also have improved accessibility and public toilets.

The Bromley Archives are also based at Central Library and the current plans will protect these important historical documents, so they are available for future generations to learn from and enjoy their local history. Displays from Bromley Archives will be in the new library, with the wider archive store room being secured throughout the move and in the long term, according to regulation.

The detailed design for the new library will now be further developed, and a planning application will be submitted shortly, with the refurbishment work expected to start on the Topshop unit in early summer 2025.

Councillor Yvonne Bear, Executive Councillor for Renewal, Recreation and Housing, commented, “We know Bromley Central library is already a popular and busy library and one of the most visited in London. These latest plans will ensure high-quality library facilities remain in our busy town centre. Our libraries play an important role in Bromley, which is why we have made important improvements to our library stock over a number of years for the benefit of our residents.”

Elsewhere in the borough, the major refurbishment of West Wickham Library is nearing completion, with the extended library set to provide additional children's learning and reading areas, new hire spaces for local groups, Changing Places toilets and a modern café with sheltered outdoor seating.

A repair programme across much of Bromley’s library network is also making good progress, with Southborough Library recently being the second completed refurbishment. Residents and councillors came together to celebrate the reopening and the modern facilities now available, including improved lighting, windows and heating systems and a new accessible public toilet with baby changing facilities.

For further details visit www.bromley.gov.uk/LibraryRepairProgramme