Brent Council has announced that plans to redevelop Willesden Green Library Centre (WGLC) have been agreed following a decision made by the council's Executive to enter into a development agreement with Galliford Try.

The decision - unanimously agreed by the board - marks a new chapter in the future of libraries and the delivery of council services in Brent.

The new 'Willesden Green Cultural Centre', as it will be known, is expected to open its doors in the spring of 2014, providing residents with a state of the art library and cultural centre.

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The centre is being delivered as part of the council's commitment to provide a cultural and service delivery hub in the south of the borough and libraries that are fit for the twenty first century.

Brent Council will retain the freehold while developers Galliford Try have the right to build homes at the back of the centre for market sale in return for the development.

Leader of Brent Council, Cllr Ann John, said: "What a brilliant start to the New Year.

"I'm excited by the prospect of delivering what will be a stimulating building that meets the needs of our residents on so many levels despite the economic climate. This new cultural centre will broaden appeal for visitors and reach new audiences some of which may not have visited a library or council public space for years. It won't just be a place to read, it will be a hub of activity with performances spaces, places for the community to meet, socialise and carry out business with the council."

The redevelopment will start in September 2012 when an interim library service will be put in place.

(CD/GK)