A town centre library could be saved as fresh plans have been submitted to bring the building back to life.

Folkestone Library, based in Grace Hill, may return to public use after art charity Creative Folkestone expressed an interest.

Since its closure in 2022, there has been much speculation about the Grade II-listed building’s future, with Kent County Council (KCC) putting the site on the market in August.

But hopes for its revival have been boosted as Creative Folkestone, chaired by Sir Roger De Haan, confirmed it has sent a formal proposal to KCC.

Plans say the project will need “significant capital investment,” with the group asking the council to apply for central government funding to make it possible.

Alastair Upton, chief executive of Creative Folkestone, said: “Folkestone Library is one of the town’s most treasured buildings.

“It represents more than a century of learning, sharing, and creativity.

“By bringing it back to use, we hope to give it a new life that continues that legacy and benefits everyone who lives, works, and studies in Folkestone.”

The library first opened its doors in 1888 and was built on a strong tradition of community learning.

Two decades later, philanthropist Andrew Carnegie funded an extension in 1910.

Creative Folkestone, alongside charity Sunflower House, hopes to restore the building to mark the 115th anniversary of those improvements.

District councillor Mike Blakemore (Green), cabinet member for community and collaboration, said: “Creative Folkestone and Sunflower House have together come up with an imaginative bid that would give Folkestone Library an exciting new future.

“We have supported this proposal from the start and I am thrilled to have seen it take shape.

“I sincerely hope KCC accepts the bid so that we can see it open its doors again after so long.”

Last year, KCC estimated repairs would cost nearly £3 million, leaving the site’s future in doubt.

Since then, Shepway Youth Centre, based in the same street, has served as a temporary base for library users.

Plans submitted last month confirmed KCC’s proposals to move the service again, this time to a “better solution” in 14 Sandgate Road, the former Poundstretcher.

If approved, the move would see the library relocate from its current temporary home at Shepway Youth Centre, with the Adult Education also set to move into the new site from Tontine Street in spring 2026.

Jon O’Conner, trustee of Sunflower House, said: “This proposal developed by Creative Folkestone provides our community with a positive working partnership and an opportunity to give Folkestone Library a new lease of life for future generations.”

A KCC spokesperson added: “We appreciate the time and effort Creative Folkestone and other community groups have put into developing proposals for the future of the building at 2 Grace Hill.

“All proposals will be assessed against set criteria, with the deadline for submissions on October 31.

“A decision is expected in early 2026.”