New archives centre on view (From Dudley News)

Borough residents can take a look at the construction progress of the new archives and local history centre, from a purpose built viewing platform.

10:10am Friday 24th August 2012 in Dudley Council Noticeboard

Borough residents can take a look at the construction progress of the new archives and local history centre, from a purpose built viewing platform.

The new centre is being built next to the Black CountryLivingMuseum on the Tipton Road in Dudley. Construction is now well underway and Dudley Council’s archives service will relocate from its existing building in Coseley to the new state-of-the-art building next summer.

The new building will be eco-friendly and energy efficient, offering up-to-the-minute facilities. These will include IT and public Wi-fi  services, education and conference rooms, a high tech conservation studio, a rare books library and research area a well equipped search room and free car parking. The centre is being part funded by the European Regional Development Fund, as part of their funding for the redevelopment of the Castle Hill area of Dudley.

The move from the existing archives centre in Coseley to the new building is part of the council’s commitment to preserving and protecting the borough’ s historic collections which date back to the 12th century and which have outgrown the existing site.

Councillor Khurshid Ahmed, cabinet member for housing, libraries and adult learning said:

“The viewing platform located above the construction site of the new archives centre gives a brilliant view of the site and of the construction progress of the centre.

“I would encourage anyone passing by the site to take a look from the platform, as well as looking at the site hoardings which show the artist’s impression of the new centre”

The viewing platform can be accessed from a door which is located within the construction site hoardings on the Tipton Road in Dudley. The platform is open from 9am until 5pm, Monday to Friday.