FAQs
Library
How far is the proposed new location from the current library's location?
The proposed new location is 0.31 miles from the current location (the Thameside Complex).
Will the proposed move have an impact on the size of library?
The proposed new library will occupy a similar size to its current location in the Thameside Complex.
Will there be any reduction to staffing?
There are no plans to reduce staffing levels.
How many public computers will be available to use in the proposed new location?
The proposed new location will include the same number of public computers as the current location. There are 20 public computers currently available.
Will there still be scanning and printing facilities in the proposed new location?
Yes, the proposed new location will have the same number of printers and document scanners. There are currently two public printers and four flatbed document scanners.
Will there still be study spaces available?
Yes, there will be a similar number of study spaces available. There are currently 74 study spaces.
Will there still be free Wi-Fi access at the proposed new location?
Yes, there will be free Wi-Fi available to all visitors as well as Wi-Fi printing provision (subject to printing costs).
Will there be any access to disabled parking at the proposed new location?
Yes. There will be more access to disabled parking spaces in the proposed new location.
Will there be any changes to the opening hours for Grays Central Library?
There are no proposed changes to the standard Grays Central Library opening hours.
Where is the nearest car park to the proposed new location?
Public parking is available in Argent Street car park. This car park is 320 yards from the proposed new location, a 4-minute walk according to Google maps.
Will the proposed location have the same amenities as the current location?
Yes. There will be public toilets, a disabled toilet, a baby change facility, and a platform lift to the 1st floor.
Will groups still have access to run their activities?
Yes, the space will be more flexible, enabling a diverse range of events, groups and activities. Regular groups/activities including Rhyme Time, Knit & Natter etc will continue as usual.
Will there be a quiet study room in the new proposed location?
No, but there will be designated areas for study and computer use.
Will this change the number of books and reading material available at the library?
There are no plans to reduce the number of books or Spoken Word available at the library, however, we are looking to review the condition and use of CDs and DVDs.
Will the proposed move impact any other libraries in Thurrock?
CD/DVDs maybe relocated to a branch library.
Museum
What is the distance between the current location and the proposed new location?
The proposed new location is 0.31 miles from the current location
How big will the proposed new Museum be?
The proposed new Museum will occupy a smaller area with fewer items on display at any one time, but it is hoped that we will change some of our displays more regularly.
Will the proposed move have any impact on the opening hours of the Museum?
There are no current plans to change the standard museum opening hours.
What if I donated something to the Museum in the past? Are you likely to dispose of it?
As a museum, we cannot dispose of an item in our collections without first consulting the donor. Please contact us if you have donated an item to the Museum in the past. Email us on: Thurrock.museum@thurrock.gov.uk
Will there be any access to disabled parking at the proposed new location?
Yes. There will be more access to disabled parking spaces in the proposed new location.
Where is the nearest car park to the proposed new location?
Public parking is available in Argent Street car park. This car park is 320 yards from the proposed new location, a 4-minute walk according to Google maps.
Will the proposed location have the same amenities as the current location?
Yes. There will be public toilets, a disabled toilet, a baby change facility, and a platform lift to the 1st floor.
Will the provision for groups and events remain the same?
The space will be more flexible, enabling a range of events, groups and activities.
General
Are you proposing to relocate Grays Central Library and Thurrock Museum so you can close the Thameside Complex?
No decision regarding the future of the Thameside Complex has been made.
How can you afford to relocate Grays Central Library and Thurrock Museum if the Council has issued a Section 114 notice?
At its meeting on 15 March 2023 Cabinet ‘Noted the allocation of £1.2million in the Capital Programme agreed at Council on 1st March 2023, funded from asset sales, for the relocation of the library and museum’. A final cost will be confirmed following the consultation.
For more information about what a section 114 notice is please visit our website.
How much is it going to cost to relocate Grays Central Library and Thurrock Museum?
At its meeting on 15th March 2023 Cabinet ‘Noted the allocation of £1.2million in the Capital Programme agreed at Council on 1st March 2023, funded from asset sales, for the relocation of the library and museum’. A final cost will be confirmed following the consultation.
Why are you proposing to relocate Grays Central Library and Thurrock Museum when there is a possibility that the Thameside Complex may become a community asset in the future?
It is the building that could become a community asset in the future. Council services are not and cannot be community assets.
What will happen to the theatre if the proposed move for Grays Central Library and Thurrock Museum goes ahead?
The relocation plans do not include the theatre and no decision has been taken regarding the future of the building or the theatre.
We are currently running a survey to help us consider options for delivery of cultural events and activities in Grays and the wider borough. You can take part online: consult.thurrock.gov.uk/cultural-events