Work has started on the long-promised improvements to Selsdon's library, community hall and day centre, in a partnership between supermarket giant Sainsbury's and Croydon Council.

The re-development project is expected to be completed before the end of the year and is part of obligation that Sainsbury's are required to fulfil in return for their acquisition of the former car park site by Croydon Council.

The amenities in Selsdon, which have been in use since the 1960s and no-longer meet modern standards, will boast study facilities, public access computers, DVDs, videos and other library materials.

There will also be a large children's library providing increased space for class and author visits.

Its hoped the community hall will be open in time for Christmas.

Councillor Raj Chandarana, cabinet member for culture, said: "Now the project is under way, I can understand people's enthusiasm for the brand new facilities they will be able to enjoy before the end of the year. I believe we can offer even better community services once we move into the high quality, purpose built accommodation."

The hall, like the library, will have full disabled access and will also contain a caf area and a licensed bar to support private events in the evening and at weekends.

It is expected to be able to seat 200 people for live performances and social activities, and will be equipped with a stage, three dressing rooms and a sound and lighting rig.

A purpose-built recycling centre will be a further feature of the new scheme.