Contractors have arrived on site to start building work on the East Ham Civic Campus scheme.

Work on the �21million project, which will contain a new �12m library and a front office service for residents, is expected to start next month.

BAM Construction, which was also built the Chobham Academy in the Olympic Park, Stratford, has been appointed to carry out the work.

The Grade II* listed East Ham Town Hall complex in Barking Road will also be refurbished, with its campus buildings turned into offices.

Newham Council is expected to cut costs by integrating its front office services in one place.

The buildings have been vacant since 2008, and plans to transform the site were approved by the cabinet in May 2010.

BAM construction director Andy Mason said approval has been secured from English Heritage for the restoration of the town hall.

He said: “We are pleased to be delivering these important facilities for Newham Council.

“A great deal of work was required from all parties to make this scheme a reality, and BAM is delighted to have played its part in making that happen.

“We look forward to creating some excellent facilities for council staff and local residents.”