Building record LWT 362 - Oulton Broad Branch Library and other buildings at Oswald's Boatyard, Bridge Street

2016: A historic building recording was undertaken on the library, 94 Bridge Road terraced house, and a 20th century pumping station. Oulton Broad Branch Library is an early to mid-19th century brick building which has hints of neoclassical style in its road facing façade. The results of this survey suggest that part of the building has been extended vertically and a new extension added to the rear, otherwise the external appearance remains largely unchanged. Internally, the ground floor has been converted for use as a library but the upper floors suggest that it has been used as accommodation in the past. Many of the internal fittings still survive, and echo the neo-classical detailing of the exterior, such as the cornices and pediments located on the chimney breasts. There is evidence it was previously used as a temperance hotel. 94 Bridge Road and a derelict building to the south of the library (the Sewage Pumping Station) were recorded externally. 94 Bridge Road is a turn of the century detached terrace style house which was originally attached to 96 Bridge Road, now demolished. The Sewage Pumping Station is a 20th century services building. Neither are of particular historic interest. All three buildings contribute to our understanding of the changing use of the land at Oswald’s boatyard from the early requirements for housing through to later industrial use and abandonment. The library building shows interesting changes in the style and use of community buildings and is of an interesting style and indicative of the period. (S1)