A new chapter for Ledbury and Ross
Life will be breathed back into the St. Katherine's complex in Ledbury as today funding of 2.9 million, over the next two years, has been agreed to develop a new library extension on the site, between the Master's House and the St. Katherine's Barn.
The new library will be accessible to all and a welcome addition to a historic site which will contain the recently moved Tourist Information Centre, Info in Herefordshire and an opportunity to expose some of the historic original features of the building.
The community of Ledbury have been working hard to achieve this goal with a newly formed Master's House Action Group and a Friends of the Master's House group.
Chairman of the Action Group Mr Humphrey Britton-Johnson said: "This has been long awaited and a sensational result for Ledbury. The town and surrounding areas deserve a library that is welcoming, friendly and with modern facilities that compliment the Master's House, which has been empty or underused for so long. It will bring visitors and residents alike to an area of the town which will be a model of how old and new can exist together."
The Friends group would welcome any further members. Both groups are working as catalysts in the development process.
Work will begin on archeologically survey in June to assess the potential archaeological significance of the site.
Ross Library will also undergo substantial change as the building is extended and refurbished to include Info in Herefordshire. Ross Library has recently celebrated its 10th anniversary at the same time as the launch of National Year of Reading and has a thriving community. Now both services will be delivered through the same reception offering the community a much better streamlined service.
Councillor Adrian Blackshaw, Herefordshire Council's cabinet member for economic development and community services, said: "We hope an imaginative design will compliment the existing building and be a regional landmark. It is also a demonstration of the commitment Herefordshire Council has in improving the services and facilities in Ledbury. This attraction will improve the local economy and be a continuing source of local pride and a visitor attraction in its own right."
