Morgan Sindall Construction has completed the first phase of Reading's new Central Library, marking a key milestone in the £10.7 million regeneration of the town's civic quarter.

The project includes the design and construction of a new extension to the Civic Offices on Bridge Street, alongside the refurbishment of parts of the existing building. Once complete, the development will provide around 1,400m² of modern library accommodation and reorganised customer service facilities.

To mark the completion of the first phase, members of the Morgan Sindall site team were joined by senior representatives from Reading Borough Council on Friday 23 January. The newly redesigned civic centre reception opened to the public on Monday 26 January.

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The second phase of the scheme will deliver the purpose-built Central Library, with completion scheduled for the end of April 2026, forming part of the wider programme of improvements to Reading’s town centre.

As part of the works, the civic centre has been transformed to include a bright, double-height atrium accessed via new revolving doors, creating a modern and welcoming entrance for residents and visitors. The redesigned reception now offers digital check-in services and modern, accessible facilities, with devices and staff support available to assist those who require help accessing online services.

James York, Area Director at Morgan Sindall Construction in the Thames Valley, said: "The new Central Library will give Reading residents a modern, welcoming space for reading, learning, and community engagement, while the enhanced reception area will make council services easier for all residents to access.

"This project demonstrates our commitment to creating lasting value in the communities where we work. We're proud to support the council's vision for the town centre and look forward to completing a library that will serve the people of Reading for generations to come."

The project has been supported by government funding from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government and forms part of a broader programme of cultural investment in Reading's town centre.