Central Library bulldoze plan is denied

Birmingham Evening Mail, 14.03.2000 - summary of article

BIRMINGHAM'S much criticised Central Library may be demolished and relocated in the new East Side development. A new library, replacing the building dubbed a "book incinerator" by Prince Charles, could be built as part of plans for the redevelopment of the city centre, according to council sources. Paul Spooner, the city council's economic development director, said he was not aware of any plans to relocate the library.

A council spokesman said: "We have no plans whatsoever to knock down the Central Library. This is all speculation." But it is understood council officers are considering the future of the Central Library although discussions are at an early stage and no definite plans have yet been drawn up.

The redevelopment of the site is viewed as an integral part of the vision to revitalise the city along the Broad Street corridor, which includes plans to build a skyscraper at Arena Central.

The library was designed by Birmingham architect John Madin and built in the early 1970s, replacing a listed Victorian building. John Madin's concept for the library, which included a complex of water gardens, was never completed as money ran out. It was said to be an outstanding example of the architecture of its time, but was condemned by Prince Charles who said it looked like a place where books were incinerated.

One idea being floated is for Birmingham to create a landmark building with a new library designed by a leading international architect, as in Barcelona The East Side concept - launched in December - aims to create a new quarter dedicated to heritage and learning