It was recently announced that the East Riding of Yorkshire Council would transform the Treasure House in Champney Road, Beverley, into a Beverley Hub, combining several existing council services under one roof.
The £3.3 million scheme includes a new customer service centre and enhanced library, as well as relocating the council’s registration services from Walkergate House.
In addition, Champney Gardens will be landscaped, and there will be a new Changing Places facility. A new Tourist Information Center will be located downstairs.
There will be no impact on the East Riding Museum or the café. As much as possible, Beverley Art Gallery would remain open during construction.
Nearly 90 responses were received between late August and 7 October, with the majority supporting the proposal.
Councillor Jonathan Owen, leader of the council, said:
“We are very grateful to all those who attended our drop-in event in August and also to those who have contributed responses since then. All comments submitted have been read and carefully considered.
“The comments received will inform a planning application for the scheme, which will be submitted for consideration very soon. This scheme is aimed at improving the library in Beverley and creating a new cultural hub for the town, whilst also rationalising our assets and getting better value for money for our residents. It will be largely funded by the sale of our buildings in Cross Street and Walkergate House.
“We also aim to significantly improve Champney Gardens, and offer excellent facilities in a new location for customers and staff of our registration services.”
Respondents raised concerns about the proposed name of The Beverley Hub, and the council has agreed to recommend an alternative name.
As part of this process, the council has also agreed to examine the proposed provision of parking and drop-off for the new wedding venue, as well as the capacity of the cafe. Respondents have been assured that the new Customer Service Centre will not affect library customers’ experiences.
A temporary location in County Hall would be provided for the library during construction. While East Riding Archives will likely remain closed during construction, customers will still be able to access the archive service online, as they were during the pandemic lockdowns. Customers will be able to make enquiries and request copies of documents online.
Councillor Owen added:
“We anticipate a planning application will be drawn up and submitted in the very near future. Of course, the planning application will be available for the public to see online, and we will be happy to share our detailed final proposals at that stage.”
