THE transformation of a derelict former library into a community centre should be fully completed by September, organisers say.

Residents have been working flat-out on turning the St James Street Library site in Walthamstow into the new 'Mill' centre since they secured a 15 year lease on the building from the council in April.

Already more than 1,000 hours of renovation work have been clocked up and the campaigners' vision is finally starting to take shape.

In addition to residents, Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs) have also been lending a hand on painting work, while volunteer architects and designers from as far afield as Italy have been brought in to help by The Redundant Architects Recreation Association (RaRa).

The Forest Recycling Project has also been helping with donations of paint and old scaffolding boards, and other resources.

Neil Meads, one of the trustees at The Mill, said residents were delighted at the progress made so far.

He added: "We're really pleased to be getting this support and recognition from our neighbourhood police team, along with the incredible support from an ever expanding list of people who’ve given up their spare time to get the building ready to open again."

The library, in Coppermill Lane, was suddenly closed by the council in 2007 and had been due to be turned into a drug treatment centre until the plans were scuppered by campaigners.

But earlier this year, after months of wrangling, the council finally agreed to hand over the keys to residents after they secured a £150,000 charity grant to support their plans.

Part of the building has already been opened for special days and events, and more space will open on Saturday August 6.

A definite date for the grand opening in September is yet to be set, although it is expected to take place during the E17 Art Trail between September 2 and 11.

Visit www.themill-coppermill.org for more information and updates on the work.

Click here to follow the Waltham Forest Guardian on Twitter