Library set to close for asbestos removal work

A Victorian-era library is set to close for at least two weeks after asbestos was discovered during maintenance works.

The material was found during works on the floors of Cheltenham Library's Grade II-listed building, but was undisturbed.

The building, on Clarence Street in the town centre, will shut from 14 May to 1 June, although this may be extended if further work is needed, Gloucestershire County Council says.

A council spokesman said the work would ensure the building remained "safe and usable for the future".

The Children's Library will remain open, and adult reservations can be collected from the Children's Library throughout the closure.

Councillor Paul Hodgkinson, cabinet member with responsibility for libraries, said: "We understand how important Cheltenham Library is to the local community and appreciate that a temporary closure can be inconvenient.

"These essential works will help ensure the building remains safe and usable for the future."

A list of the town's other libraries is available on the Gloucestershire Libraries website.

Follow BBC Gloucestershire on Facebook, X and Instagram. Send your story ideas to us on email or via WhatsApp on 0800 313 4630.