£100K to convert library into offices
The controversial move is expected to take place so that council staff can move into the library building from Neuadd Maldwyn, which is due to be offloaded to avoid a £450,000 bill to keep the building fit for purpose.
Campaigners have obtained, through a Freedom of Information request, that it will cost £96,000 to prepare the library for the office staff, and a further £63,000 to prepare the museum for its new library lodger.
We put these figures to PCC who continue to defend the decision which has been derided by a majority of the town, with more than 4,000 signatures on a petition.
Cllr Phyl Davies, Cabinet Member for Highways, Recycling and Assets, said: “As part of the office accommodation changes in Welshpool, which will see the closure of Neuadd Maldwyn, we have estimated the cost to refurbish the library to provide office accommodation at £96,000. The estimated cost to prepare Powysland Museum for the library’s move is £63,000.
“These costs are just estimates at this stage and are likely to change when the tender process for the proposed works has been completed.
“The changes will still see library and museum services being maintained in Welshpool but will also allow us to make best use of our property portfolio. These changes and the closure of Neuadd Maldwyn will help the council save around £115,000 in the first year they are implemented and ongoing annual savings of around £198,000 plus the avoidance of capital expenditure in relation to the retention of Neuadd Maldwyn of about £450,000.
“Discussions on the future of Neuadd Maldwyn once the council vacates the building are still ongoing. However, we have not reached any agreement to sell the building and it remains our asset.”
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