Former Hollingbury Library site project

About the former Holllingbury Library site project

As part of the New Homes for Neighbourhoods programme, we're planning to demolish the unused Hollingbury Library.

We will build 9 sustainable council homes to let at affordable rents. They will be one and 2 bedroom homes.

The former Hollingbury library is located at 137 Carden Hill, Brighton and Hove, Brighton BN1 8DA. The existing building is contaminated with asbestos and is beyond restoration or refurbishment.

Before any demolition starts, we'll record the library in drawings and photographs. This will archive its architectural and social history.

What's happening now at the former Hollingbury Library site

Contractor appointment

Brighton & Hove City Council are currently procuring a contractor to build the part 3 and part 4 storey building. We expect to start work on site by Winter 2024.

Former Hollingbury Library site project history

The brewers, Whitbread, built the building now called Hollingbury Library. It was a public house known as The County Oak.

It opened in 1950 and operated for about 10 years before moving to a neighbouring site in March 1961. The building was converted into Hollingbury Library and opened in 1962.

Planning application outcome

In March 2024, planners approved a project to redevelop the former Hollingbury Library at Carden Hill for affordable housing.  

Time plan for the former Hollingbury Library site project

We expect to appoint a contractor in September 2024, with work starting on site from Winter 2024.

We expect to complete the project by early 2026.

Engagement and consultation on the former Holllingbury Library site project

in August 2023 we consulted residents on the proposals to develop the site and the designs of the new homes. We took feedback into consideration for the final designs. 

Latest news on the former Holllingbury Library site project

Find out the lastest new on the proposal to provide more council homes.