Haydock Library reopens as pioneering SEND-inclusive community space
St Helens Borough Council is delighted to announce the reopening of Haydock Library, following its ambitious transformation into a fully SEND inclusive library spaces for children and adults.
Article date: 23 March 2026
After closing in December to allow redevelopment work to begin, the library has now been reimagined as a space for everyone - a welcoming, open place that connects people, especially those with additional needs, with books, technology, and each other.
The council invited residents, families and partner organisations to a special public reopening event today (Monday 23 March), celebrating the completion of this landmark project, with Mayor of St Helens Cllr Seve Gomez-Aspron MBE officially cutting the ribbon to open the newly transformed space.
Led by award winning artist and composer Dr Emily Peasgood and architect Ben Allen, the council commissioned project represents a bold step away from conventional library design - creating a sensory inclusive, welcoming and community led environment, shaped through extensive engagement with local residents, organisations and people with disabilities.
The transformed library supports a wide range of inclusive features, including:
- Modern, flexible community spaces
- Digital learning and creative facilities
- Dedicated children's and family reading areas
- Meeting rooms and quiet study zones
- Improved accessibility and inclusive design throughout
This transformation was shaped by a community steering group with BuzzHub St Helens CDP and Listen4Change Parent Carer Forum.
A key principle of the project has been speaking directly with people with disabilities, ensuring their voices are central to the design rather than relying solely on carers or parents. Participants were invited to design their "dream library" using floor plans as creative prompts.
Dr Peasgood said:
"This is a space for everyone, informed by the social model of disability. It's about balance - what one person needs can sometimes conflict with another's needs - so my aim is to create a space where everyone can find their place. I don't want to create something that looks like other libraries. I want it to be well-designed, beautiful and magical. A place where you want to be. I aim to create Haydock's living room."
Councillor Sue Murphy MBE, St Helens Borough Council's Cabinet Member for Localities, Culture and Heritage, said:
"We're excited by the possibilities that our transformed, SEND-inclusive Haydock Library represents and are delighted to welcome everyone back at this reopening. The project is building on our Library Services' excellent offer and ensuring that library users of all ages and needs, can access the resources and support they require to thrive, in an environment that suits them.
""Libraries play an important part in the life of our communities, and the council has recognised this in the borough's library strategy. The refurbishment of Haydock Library is yet another example of the our commitment to libraries and investing in our communities. I am delighted to see how involved both Listen for Change and Buzz Hub have been in the design process and hope that they and others enjoy using the space for many years to come."
Luke Burton, Director of Libraries for Arts Council England, said: "I'm very pleased that we've supported the new SEND library at Haydock Library through the Libraries Improvement Fund. Libraries exist for all and it's so important that everyone, no matter their circumstances or needs, can access them and enjoy everything they have to offer. I'm sure that the local community will benefit from all the new spaces and facilities as well as the programme of activities."
The library forms part of a wider commitment set out in the Borough's Library Strategy 2023-28 to expand cultural and wellbeing opportunities across the borough, ensuring residents of all ages have access to high‑quality learning, literacy and community support.
Haydock Library is now open to the public, with digital membership options, and a full programme of activities throughout the week.
Residents are encouraged to visit, explore the new spaces, and take part in events designed to celebrate reading, learning and community spirit.
Learn more about Library Services at www.sthelens.gov.uk/libraries