A new multi-million pound community hub has opened to the public in Weybridge delivering a modern library and flexible civic space.
Designed to support community services, youth provision, commercial activity and broadcasting, the scheme was delivered by Pick Everard for Surrey County Council in collaboration with AtkinsRéalis and main contractor Neilcott.
The project involved a comprehensive external refurbishment of the existing Weybridge Library site in Church Street, alongside a full internal refit to accommodate a wide range of partners and the needs of residents of all ages and backgrounds. The building will enable them to come together through activities and services to tackle isolation and strengthen community resilience.
Pick Everard provided principal design, architecture, interior design and landscape architecture services, acting as lead designer through RIBA Stages 1–3 under the Surrey Framework and as technical advisor for RIBA Stages 4-6.
Aligned with the Department for Culture, Media and Sport standards, the hub includes an activity space with bookable multi-use spaces and meeting rooms, a business hub offering co-working facilities for Surrey County Council, a base for regional broadcaster Brooklands Radio and a designated area on the first floor for Elmbridge Borough Council Community Services provision.
Deputy Leader of Surrey County Council and Cabinet Member for Customer and Communities, Denise Turner-Stewart, said: “Our community hubs are the very ethos of what Surrey County Council are investing in, to deliver in the heart of our communities, working together with external partners and residents, to provide places that bring our services, support and social events and activities all under one roof for our residents to access and enjoy. Our modern, sustainable, accessible and multi-purpose Library Hubs are about building stronger communities together, providing a legacy for future service and support provision within our local areas. We are proud to have been able to deliver another Library Hub, this time in the heart of Weybridge.”
Architecturally, the scheme enhances the Church Street elevation with fully glazed ground and first floors, clearly signalling the main entrance, library and business hub while improving visibility and engagement with the public realm. A deep-set entrance, formal stepped access and an integrated ramp improve accessibility, reinforcing a strong sense of arrival within a sensitive conservation area setting adjacent to listed buildings, including St James’ Parish Church.
Sustainability was a key driver throughout the design process, with the project targeting high energy efficiency and carbon reduction in line with LETI guidance. Measures include the installation of solar photovoltaic panels, the removal of gas boilers and their replacement with variable refrigerant volume systems and high-efficiency air handling units.
Sainaja Feroz, Associate of Architecture at Pick Everard, said: “Flexibility and accessibility were central to the design of the Weybridge community hub, particularly given its location within a conservation area and alongside listed buildings with protected views. The result is a highly adaptable, inclusive facility that supports Surrey County Council’s long-term vision for community-focused spaces while responding sensitively to its historic context.”
The project forms part of Surrey County Council’s 2030 vision and asset management strategy, which aims to enhance local assets, expand access to public services and create welcoming community spaces that meet evolving needs, including safe spaces and facilities capable of supporting 24/7 operational requirements.
To find out more about Pick Everard and its services, please visit: https://www.pickeverard.co.uk/
