A TOWN library that has failed “to stand the test of time” will not mean the end of the useful service, says an MP.

Harriett Baldwin, Conservative MP for West Worcestershire, had asked for the detailed costings that have been prepared as part of the justification to move Pershore library service from its current home.

The £178,000 figure for repairs and maintenance for the Pershore Library building in Church Street were drawn up by Worcestershire County Council, which says the cost is too great to carry on providing the service where it is.

Although no decision has been taken, the county council has consistently stated a preferred option is to move the library to the Civic Centre in Queen Elizabeth Drive.

A public consultation on what to do about the library is running until April.

Having seen the costings herself, Mrs Baldwin – a former money markets adviser on pension funds – said “everyone can see a lot of expensive work needs to be done”.

The library was built 35 years ago but is poorly insulated, has no disabled access to higher floors, a problematic flat roof and sub-standard toilets and drainage, according to Mrs Baldwin.

Gas and electricity bills are more than £2,000 a year.

“It is such a shame that the purpose-built building has not stood the test of time,” she said.

“Everyone can see it needs a lot of expensive work done.”

She said it was “important” for people to give their views on the consultation as she had been personally assured there was “no done deal” surrounding any move of services out of the building.

Consultation forms can be picked up in the library or completed online on the county council’s website.

Meanwhile, drop-in surgeries are being held for residents at the library each Monday from 2.30pm until 4pm until Monday, April 18. People can either just drop in or ring in advance on 01905 822722.