Granville: Man charged with drink driving after allegedly crashing into library

A man has been charged with drink-driving and a woman has been taken to hospital after the driver allegedly ploughed into a library at a newly-opened $25 million centre in Sydney’s west.

Joanne Vella

@Parramatta_News

less than 2 min read

November 19, 2020 - 2:07PM

Parramatta Advertiser

Firefighters and police released the woman. Picture: Bill Hearne

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A man has been charged with drink driving after he allegedly ploughed into the library at the newly-opened $25 million Granville Centre overnight.

The 43-year-old driver allegedly returned a positive breath analysis reading of 0.108 and was charged with mid-range PCA and negligent driving after allegedly crashing into the Memorial Drive building about 1am.

Police said a 40-year-old woman was trapped for a short time before being taken to Westmead Hospital with non life-threatening injuries.

A woman was trapped briefly in the car after the collision. Picture: Bill Hearne

There was severe structural damage to the building. Picture: Bill Hearne

The Sefton driver’s licence was suspended and he was ordered to appear at Parramatta Local Court.

The centre will remain closed while emergency repairs are being carried out on the building.

Cumberland Mayor Steve Christou said the council was working with police following the incident.

Cumberland Mayor Steve Christou inspects the extensive damage this morning.

The driver will front court. Picture: Bill Hearne

“The damage to the library facade of the building is quite severe and we’re grateful that no one has been killed in this accident,” Cr Christou said.

“The centre only opened in September and we know this will be very disappointing for local residents who are using facilities at this site, including the library.’’

The rest of the centre, including the gallery and pool, remain open while repair work is under way.