COFFEE chain Nosh is to open inside Southend’s new £25million library.

The Forum opens on Monday and replaces central library in Victoria Avenue.

It has been funded by the University of Essex, Southend Council and South Essex College.

The 75-seat cafe is due to open on October 15. There will also be seating for 30 people outside on the patio area in front of the Forum.

It will employ between 12 and 15 staff, including part time workers.

A spokesman for Nosh said: “The new Nosh cafe at the Forum is the company’s biggest venue to date and a chance to really become part of the community in Southend.

“Nosh looks forward to welcoming visitors and locals alike to its stylish new cafe.”

There are currently no plans to close Nosh’s cafe in High Street.