More details have been revealed about proposals to turn a former library in Harold Wood into a "lively community hub", complete with a coffee bar and space for support groups.
Harold Wood Library's future is still up for discussion following its closure in April 2025 as part of an attempt by Havering Council to save money.
However - following a successful application to become an asset of community value (ACV) by the Harold Wood Foundation - plans are now being scoped out to reopen the premises as a community space.
The ACV means that the community has the right to be informed about any decision to sell the site and is able to prepare a bid for it.
The Harold Wood Foundation has now revealed that it has been working "tirelessly" behind the scenes to secure a "positive" future for the library, including drawing up plans to reopen the space as a community lending library, complete with a coffee bar.
Rachel Grimwood, chair and founder of the non-profit group, told the Recorder: "The space is envisioned as a lively community hub, hosting activities ranging from men’s mental wellbeing groups and bereavement support, to a safe space for young people with initiatives aimed at reducing social isolation and loneliness.
"In a significant step forward, the Foundation has successfully achieved asset of community value status for the library and has also requested for it to be considered for inclusion on the local heritage list.
"These protections underline the importance of the building to local residents and would safeguard it from demolition for housing."
A report published ahead of a council meeting in December 2025 revealed that there was a preference by officers and cabinet members towards redeveloping the site for housing, "ideally by the council or its housing company, Mercury Land Holdings".
However, Ms Grimwood believes there is a "widespread desire" to see the library restored as a "cherished community asset".
She explained that the Foundation has already secured initial funding for the project, but that discussions with the council are ongoing.
The council has proposed a rent "beyond what the Foundation can realistically sustain", Ms Grimwood said, but the group is hopeful that a "mutually beneficial solution" can be reached.
A Havering Council spokesperson said: "Council officers are currently in negotiation with the Harold Wood Foundation regarding terms for a potential temporary use of the building and discussions are ongoing around potential sources of funding."
