Plans for new library and community hub in King's Lynn

The former Argos building in the centre of King's Lynn is set to be transformed.

Norfolk County Council is now finalising designs for the landmark building, on the corner of New Conduit Street and Tower Street.

The former Argos building which is set to become King's Lynn's new library (Image: Chris Bishop)

It has consulted West Norfolk council, before submitting a formal planning application.

The project has not been without its controversies, with the expected price doubling because of increased building costs and fears for the future of the town's existing library.

Artist impressions and drawings of the new building are included in a report which says the development will "transform the scale, massing and appearance of the building, creating a focal point within the town".

An architect's drawing of the new building (Image: Hudson Architects) A drawing shows the proposed layout of the building (Image: Hudson Architects)

It adds: "The project will provide residents with a single destination for learning, employment support, careers and skills advice, information and signposting, community, and voluntary resources; to get online, to pursue hobbies, and to meet with others all in one space."

A planning officer's report is critical of the "jagged" roofline of the building and says the council would like to see "further consideration" of the design of the building.

The existing building, on New Conduit Street (Image: Chris Bishop)

But it adds: "Support is given in principle to this application due to the significant community benefits likely to occur as a result of the use, which have been detailed within a business plan and which are supported in particular by the regeneration and economic development team.

"These significant community benefits would have weight in the planning decision making process."

The former Argos store, which closed in 2019 (Image: Chris Bishop)

The project is being funded by £7m from King's Lynn's £25m in government town deal funding, and £5m from the county council.

The county says it is committed to keeping the town's current library, on London Road, for "community use". The new library is expected to open in 2025.