Plans for a new library and citizens' hub at the Queen's Hall site in Newtownards have been published, showing a single building with entrances on Regent Street and West Street linked by an internal arcade.

The project is a partnership between Ards and North Down Borough Council and Libraries NI. It would bring together an expanded library, arts and cultural spaces, a flexible performance and community area, and shared public amenities.

The concept designs include study areas, classrooms, galleries, pottery facilities, a flexible auditorium and bookable community rooms. The internal route is intended to improve pedestrian connectivity through the building and provide space for displays, activities and pop-up enterprises.

Feedback from engagement sessions in June last year shaped the proposals. Participants wanted a larger performance space, the library visible at ground-floor level, improved accessibility, plenty of natural light and a design sensitive to the town's heritage.

The design team has completed RIBA Stage 2 work and is now progressing the next phase of design development. The council said it will continue to test and refine the accommodation, accessibility, operational arrangements, affordability and long-term running requirements.

Mayor of Ards and North Down Craig Blaney said the project was exciting and ambitious for Newtownards. He noted that the emerging designs showed how a distinctive new landmark could house library, arts, cultural and community facilities in one inclusive building. He added that it was encouraging to see how ideas from local users had informed the proposals. He said significant work remained before the council could move on site, but reaching this stage represented positive progress and offered a clearer picture of what the facility could provide.

Libraries NI Head of Service Julie Reid said the project was an important opportunity to consider how a modern, expanded library could support reading, learning, study, creativity and community life. She said Libraries NI looked forward to contributing to the next stages as design and business case work continued.

Further engagement and design review will take place, alongside detailed consideration of how the building would operate and be resourced. The project must complete a business case, affordability, funding and approval processes before any decision to proceed to construction. No date for going on site has been confirmed.