A library has submitted plans to construct a new roof after it was badly damaged by a fire earlier this year.

Herts Fire and Rescue were called to reports of a blaze at Rickmansworth Library, in the town's high street, at around 6.12am on April 18 2024.

(Image: Stephen Danzig) The damage forced it to shut until further notice, and it was confirmed shortly after that the roof required a complete replacement.

Since then, a planning proposal has been submitted to Herts County Council which features a replacement roof, changes to the perimeter cladding, installation of gutters and rooflights and a freestanding safety handrailing.

In a supporting statement, the a spokesperson for the library said that the roof would "not affect the character" of the surrounding conservation area and allow the town to "retain its medieval core" based on the High Street.

They also assured the council that the roof would be built with similar materials to replicate the appearance of the existing building.

The handrail is for safety purposes and will be constructed around the perimeter of the building at a "modest height", says the spokesperson.

A drawing plan for the new library roof.A drawing plan for the new library roof. (Image: Rickmansworth Library) Following a consultation, a spokesperson for Historic England did not offer any advice as they highlighted the "merits" of the application.

Besides the roof replacement, necessary work has included rewiring, clearing, and replacing the staff work areas, as well as cleaning all the books, furniture, shelving, and carpets of soot and ash.

According to the latest estimates, the library will not reopen until the end of January 2025. Therefore, the council is searching for a temporary location to move Rickmansworth’s library services to in the meantime.

A Public consultation for the application has begun, continuing until Thursday, October, 24.