Billingham Library gets building excellence award

The new building, which opened in January 2015, won the Best New Public Building at the Local Authority Building Control’s (LABC) Northern Regional Awards.

Designed by Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council and built by Stockton-based company Interserve Construction, the state-of-the-art facility sits on the site of the town’s former Art Gallery and council offices.

It acts as a ‘one-stop shop’ with new and improved library facilities including the latest in self-service technology, improved ICT and reference facilities combined with customer services for Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council and Thirteen housing group. It also houses a cash office and Billingham Town Council’s headquarters under one roof.

Judges commended the project for the use of new technology, sustainable products and for creating a building which complemented the ongoing regeneration of Billingham town centre.

Councillor David Rose, Stockton Council’s Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Transport, said: “The judges were impressed with Billingham’s Library and Customer Service Centre which is an attractive, modern facility offering residents a host of first- class services under one roof.

“We take great pride in ensuring our new buildings not only look good but are built to the highest standards.”