A recently refurbished library in West Lothian has picked up a Society for Public Architecture, Construction, Engineering and Surveying (SPACES) award.

West Calder Library was named as the joint winner in the Small Refurbishment category, alongside Wombwell Chapel from Barnsley, at the awards ceremony in Birmingham at the start of November.

Originally opened in 1904, the Library has been refurbished a number of times over the years. Hte current scheme was designed in-house by the council's Construction Services (Architects), with Currie & Brown (Quantity Surveyors), WYG (M&E Engineers), Brown + Wallace (CDM Advisors) as the design team. The works were carried out by Clark Contracts.

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Features included sympathetically restoring the building and keeping most of its original grade B listed features, along with new shelving and furniture. The original flooring has also been restored, while space beneath the library has also been converted into modern semi-open plan offices, fit for purpose and location of the Breich Valley Housing Team.

Cllr Dave King said: "This is a fantastic accolade for West Calder Library and is a testament to the hard work of those involved in this project. The library has an important place in the local community due to its proud history and the restoration work has ensured the building will continue to be at the heart of the town for years to come."

Michael Scanlan, Director at Clark Contracts, added: "It was fantastic to be involved in this project at West Calder Library and for it to win the prestigious SPACES award makes it even more special. We hope everyone enjoys the newly refurbished library for years to come and we look forward to working with West Lothian Council again in the future."

(LM)