Andrew Porter completes Bristol Library archive relocation

Chorley-based specialist removals provider, Andrew Porter Limited, has completed the relocation of more than half a kilometre of files and books from Bristol Central Library.

The relocation presented several challenges, but the firm’s experience in library relocations ensured that the project ran smoothly. In 2013 Andrew Porter Limited carried out the relocation of more than 40,000 lineal metres of books during the £50m refurbishment of Liverpool’s Central Library. Managing director, Tim Aspey, said that experience was crucial to the effective planning of the Bristol archive move.

“The destination was on a fifth floor which can only be accessed via a lift. However, the building was shared with the Create environment centre, which welcomes visits from school classes several times a day. We had to ensure that the move did not disturb the safe entry and exit of the school parties.

An additional complication concerned the type of removals vehicles used. At the destination, a side opening wagon was required, but this would not have been able to fit under a low access bridge at the library site. This meant that alternative, and less convenient, loading points had to be found and tested.