WITH its modern glass fronting and bright colours it might not strike residents as fitting the mould of your typical stately or historic building.

But now Chandler’s Ford Library has joined their ranks after becoming become become one of the youngest buildings in the country to receive listed status.

It is one of seven 20th-century libraries that has been newly listed by the Government as Grade II, making it of special interest.

The library, off Oakmount Road opposite the Fryern Arcade, is the newist on a list of post-war libraries from across England that have now gained been awarded the status - the youngest listed building on the register is the Western Morning News building in Plymouth, which dates back to 1991.

Others are in Suffolk, The Wirral, Milton Keynes, West Sussex, Surrey and Leamington Spa.

The British Library, home to documents like the Magna Carta, has become one of England’s youngest buildings to receive Grade I status.

Chandler’s Ford, which ose status now stands with the likes of the Abbey Road Studios and zebra crossing, was recognised for its architectural interest, internal plan, planning interest, design interest and art work.

Built in 1981-1982, the library is the product of Hampshire County Council architect Colin Stansfield Smith and cost £356,000.

Key features recognised include its horseshoe plan, fully glazed concave front wall, the full height space inside, the fact that it was a focal point for the new community of Chandler’s Ford and a mural by Graham Crowley mounted on the back wall.

Listing does not stop changes, but it does mean listed building consent must be applied for in order to make any, and consideration must be given to the site’s historic significance.

Cllr Godfrey Olson, Eastleigh council’s member for Hiltingbury East, said: “I was quite surprised – normally one thinks of buildings being listed that are 100 years old.

“I suppose the character of the building was acknowledged.

“I would say it’s very unique in its design and certainly adds some character to that area.

“It’s one of the few buildings certainly in recent times that one can say is outstanding.

“The library has always been an asset to Chandler’s Ford and I believe one of the best used libraries that the county council run.”

County council leader, Councillor Roy Perry, said: “When it opened, the building was well received.

“This listing recognises how the building has become part of the character of the area, enhancing the quality of place for local people.

“Giving residents a building with local identity was then, and still is, something we pride ourselves in.”