24/11/2009 05:24:00

Plans for a £193 million library development in Birmingham's Centenary Square can now go ahead, as the city's outdated Central Library has been refused listed status, with permission granted for the building to be knocked down.

BBC News reports that locals in the Heart of England city were pleased to hear the news, as Culture and Tourism Minister Margaret Hodge decided against giving the unpopular 1970s library listed status. The old building in Chamberlain Square - which was once described by Prince Charles as more resembling "a place where books are incinerated, not kept" - will be demolished to make way for new developments of bars, restaurants and shops.

Mrs Hodge's decision disappointed the Friends of the Birmingham Central Library, the campaign group that unsuccessfully attempted to have the original building granted listed status by declaring it "a very good piece of architecture of its time."

The new Library of Birmingham building is scheduled to open in 2013. Mostly made of glass, the structure will include public balconies and elevated gardens, and will be partly integrated with the Birmingham Repertory Theatre to create a new cultural centre in the city.

Birmingham Council leader Mike Whitby was enthusiastic about the new development, stating: "We are delighted that government has granted our application for 'immunity from listing' for the Central Library, giving us a major boost in our plans to regenerate the city.

"Now, our vision around a new world-class library and theatre will be enriching transformational change in the heart of the city."