More details have been revealed about the University of Bristol’s plans to build a new flagship library.
The building would replace The Hawthorns – a former hotel on the corner of Woodland Road - currently used as student accommodation, catering facilities and offices.
At this stage a stepped building is being suggested which is initially three-storeys tall and rises to seven-storeys.
The plans also include a new civic square, with proposed new road layouts to improve traffic flow, enhance the pedestrian and cycling routes and make the whole area safer and accessible for everyone.
Following feedback from university staff, students and local resident groups on the initial plans released earlier this year, updated pre-application proposals have been submitted to Bristol City Council.
A three-week public consultation on the scheme starts tomorrow (October 1) and finished on October 21, with plans to open the library by 2023/24.
During the consultation the plans will be on display in Beacon House reception and Hawthorns Terrace café.
British architecture studio Hawkins\Brown, Danish practice Schmidt Hammer Lassen Architects and engineers Buro Happold have been appointed to create an “inspirational building”.
The university has said the library - which will be home to hundreds of thousands of books and journals including the university’s special collections and theatre collection - will act as a gateway to the main campus.
The plans also include an exhibition space, gallery and café which would be open to the public.
Deputy vice-Chancellor Professor Judith Squires said: “We are excited to be developing a flagship new university library at the heart of our campus.
“It will not only provide an outstanding new space for our students and staff to research and learn but will also create a new cultural space for all the citizens of Bristol, by opening up our theatre collection and our special collections and offering a year-round programme of exhibitions and activities.
“We are also seeking to enhance the public realm around the new library, turning a congested road junction into a calm and welcoming civic space, making the roads safer and creating new accessible public space for everyone to enjoy.”
Public drop in events are set to take place in Beacon House from 5pm to 8pm on Tuesday (October 1) and from 3pm to 5pm on Tuesday, October 15.
These events will be an opportunity to talk to the university Library team, alongside architects, Hawkins Brown, transport consultants, Arup and landscape architects, Grants.
Following the consultation process the university says it plans to submit a planning application in January 2020.
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