CONSTRUCTION has got underway on a new £3 million library and health centre in Bolton.

The Little Lever Library and Health Centre will be situated on the site of the former Tesco Metro on Foundry Street.

It will replace the town's existing, 40-year-old health centre ­— which has been deemed no longer fit-for-use by Bolton NHS Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG).

Little Lever's library has also outgrown its present home, which was built in 1940.

Bolton Council Leader, Cllr David Greenhalgh, said the project shows the local authority is committed to seeing improvements and regeneration across the borough, and not just in Bolton town centre.

He added: “This new hub is a perfect example of how we can transform our districts by bringing excellent community services, in modern facilities, closer to where people live.

“It is just one element of the wider masterplan for Little Lever, which is being developed by residents, local representatives and partners to ensure the investment is used to meet local priorities.”

The new 1,206 sq. m. steel frame and brick building will boast a contemporary library space and state-of-the-art NHS health centre.

This will provide three GP services and other medical support, including treatment for long-term conditions in the community.

It has been designed by AFL architects and is being built by Bolton-headquartered firm, Seddon.

Completion of the building work is expected in July 2021.

John Shannon, divisional director at Seddon, said: “Providing new community facilities in the heart of where people live and work is vital for building a sense of place and belonging.

“This is a fantastic development, which will improve the quality of life for many people in Little Lever.

“We’re powering ahead with a strong construction programme and look forward to seeing the building open and buzzing with activity.”