The former library building in Worle is likely to be used as retail space in the future.

The library, in The Maltings, was put up for sale by North Somerset Council last year with a £300,000 asking price.

It has found a buyer, but the sale will only go through if the authority gives permission for a change of use to retail.

The council has applied to itself for planning permission.

A council spokesman said: “We have agreed terms to sell the property subject to the purchaser getting planning permission for a change of use to retail.

“It was considered best for the council to submit the planning application.”

The building was closed in 2018 when the library moved to the children’s centre in Mendip Avenue.

An online Mercury poll of 156 readers suggested 47 per cent were in favour of the building being used as a community space.

Of those who voted, 29 per cent thought it should be shops.