A FORMAL planning application for a £17.5m new central library, learning centre and cultural centre as part of the Heart of Slough project will soon be submitted.

Slough Borough councillors will see a presentation at a Cabinet meeting on Thursday. It will allow councillors to explore how the building will work, its benefits and to raise any concerns.

Described as a 'striking landmark in its own right', the services in the building will include adult learning programmes, a performance venue seating 180 people, space for exhibitions, all current services provided by libraries, increased provision for public use IT and space for all council public meetings.

Cabinet members are asked to resolve that officers proceed with a formal application for the centre which replaces the Learning Curve in the Heart of Slough masterplan and that £17.5m be committed within the Heart of Slough budget.

If planning permission is given, work would start in 2012, to open in early 2013. The cabinet will meet at 6.30pm in council chambers in the Town Hall on Bath Road, Slough. The public can attend.