Old library could be sold off

A VILLAGE library could be sold off because councillors say it has become surplus to requirements.A state-of-the-art library and community centre is currently being created in centre the of Yatton and the library's current premises are now being prepared to be put on the market.North Somerset Council officers were considering turning the High Street site into affordable housing as there is a lack of cheap housing for young couples in the area.But after an inspection of the site, housing officers decided it was unsuitable. None of the other departments in the authority could find a use for the land.Now councillors are set to vote on whether the building should be sold at a meeting of the authority's executive on Tuesday.In a report to councillors, officers say the building should ideally be kept for shopping, leisure or a development which would attract people to the village.But they say the new development should not attract more cars and should blend in with its surroundings.The report says: "As no alternative council use for the library has been identified, its retention would not represent good asset management or value for money as maintenance, business rates and insurance costs would have to be borne by the council."As no internal interest has emerged no other options than disposal have been considered."THE opening date for the new library, which is being converted from the former Quaker building in High Street, has been delayed after contractors ran into building problems.The new building, which will contain meeting rooms for community groups, a kitchen, computer suite and a new base for the parish council, as well as the library, was originally planned to open in the Spring but now it has been put back after there were problems replacing the building's windows. A new opening date has not been set.