Stroud Library has closed with immediate effect following the discovery of RAAC (Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete) in the building.

Engineers have confirmed there is no imminent risk to public safety. The closure is a purely precautionary measure which will allow the county council to carry out further checks on the building.

Since August 2023 Gloucestershire County Council has reviewed records relating to all 442 of its buildings for evidence of RAAC. Where this was inconclusive 119 visual inspections were carried out and where these were inconclusive a further 86 intrusive surveys were conducted.

Priority was given to school buildings and the wider county council estate followed. All visual inspections and intrusive surveys have now been completed.

Having completed these reviews, the county council is confident that Stroud Library is the only county council building where RAAC is present.

Alternative library provision is being explored for the short term and a pop-up library is planned to open as quickly as possible with the aim of Monday, February 12, within the Five Valleys Shopping Centre where Stroud Library is due to relocate permanently in the spring, following a public engagement exercise.