PLANS to relocate Bewdley Library into the town’s new medical centre have been given the go-ahead by Worcestershire County Council’s cabinet.

The changes, which will see the library move from its current home in Load Street to the new development on the Dog Lane car park, will enable the local authority to save money by reducing staff and building costs.

Funding and planning permission for the new health facility have been approved and the 12-month building project will begin in October.

Conservative councillor Lucy Hodgson, Worcestershire County Council’s cabinet member for localism and communities, said: “This decision is fantastic news and builds on the successful programme of working with local communities to ensure the future of our libraries.

“The financial challenge the county council faces is well documented but by working innovatively and supporting our partners, groups and volunteers, we have been able to ensure all libraries, which continue to be used better than ever, have remained open.

“This is a real example of our Act Local work and I would like to thank everyone involved. Work will continue to offer our library users a quality service that offers best value for our residents.”

A community consultation carried out by the county council, which was completed in November, 2013, showed 81 per cent of Bewdley residents supported the relocation of the library, despite concerns over loss of parking on Dog Lane.