A new library will be built in Harrow town centre under proposals confirmed today by Harrow Council.

The announcement, which comes just a day after it rejected the community business plan to save Bob Lawrence Library in Edgware, is part of the council’s library strategy to modernise the library service across the borough.

Other improvements include the introduction of a LEGO studio for children from primary to secondary school age, and extended library opening hours.

As part of the reorganisation to provide these new facilities, four of the borough’s libraries will be closing from June 13, including Hatch End, North Harrow and Rayners Lane.

Councillor Sue Anderson said: "As a council and a community we don’t want to be closing any services, but we need to protect our frontline services. These changes will allow us to improve the library service across the borough for everyone.

“Despite the tough financial climate we find ourselves in and the challenging decisions we have had to make, this strategy is ultimately positive news for the people of Harrow. It strikes the right balance between improving the libraries across the borough and modernising them for residents.

“I know how hard everyone has worked to keep the four libraries open and we were particularly impressed by the business case for North Harrow library.

"Although the libraries will close on June 13 we will continue to work with North Harrow to see if they can run a community library in the near future.”

The services provided by these libraries will be provided elsewhere, which include rhyme time sessions, computer access, and facilities for school children to study and the council will initially be providing regular transport from these libraries to the remaining ones.

The council has also agreed to transfer children’s books and shelving to Shaftesbury High School.

Following consideration of the proposals the council has given the North Harrow group more time to work on their case, stating it was the only viable business option, but Bob Lawrence campaigners have now submitted their wish to appeal the decision.