Handforth Library

Part of the redevelopment of Handforth town centre in the late 1960s and early 1970s, the library was constructed between 1974 and 1975 and opened on 27 August 1975. It was designed by Jack Whittle, Cheshire County Architect. The main contractors were W.J. Simms Sons & Cooke (Northern) Ltd. As well as the library, a health centre, community hall, new shops and highways infrastructure were all part of the overall plan proposed by Wilson Womersley. Essentially, as private car ownership grew, Handforth was overwhelmed by commuter traffic travelling from Cheshire into Manchester and the A34 bypass was to relieve the pressure on the town. Alongside the bypass, these new facilities were intended to modernise and protect the commercial viability of the compact town centre. The library building itself is a simple affair, but not without charm. Brick walls with curved corners give a warm and welcoming sense, particularly as they curve from two sides cupping the entrance. A flat oversailing roof provides a modicum of shelter on all sides and an independent structure lifts it above the height of the walls to allow a continuous band of clerestory glazing to cast controlled daylight into the main spaces of the building. The plant housing and service areas are of the same materials and details, as is the adjacent health centre, also by the County Architect.

With thanks to the librarians of Handforth for their assistance.