CONCERNED Caldicot Library users have met with Monmouthshire County Council (MCC) to discuss its future.

The Friends of Caldicot Library held a meeting with the council officers after discovering the library and the one stop shop would be merged along with the possibility of relocating the library to a retail unit in town.

Around 30 people attended the meeting earlier this month at Caldicot Library.

Bernard John, chairman of the Friends of Caldicot Library, said: "Officers explained there wold be changes to the library and one stop shop and that library staff would be reduced.

"They felt the reason would bring more footfall into the town and regenerate it. We were not convinced by this as the library is only a minute's walk.

"We would like to retain the existing building and I would accept the absorption of the One Stop Shop into the library building as we understand that changes need to be made."

Kellie Beirne, chief officer for enterprise, said: "A productive meeting generated some excellent ideas and allowed us to exchange views. For example, the Friends of Caldicot Library are very keen to retain the use of the word 'library' in relation to the service and we believe we can work together to accommodate this.

"A commitment was given that stage one of the proposal is to integrate the library and one stop shop in the current library building.

"Beyond this, an options appraisal will need to be undertaken as well as a detailed business case to support any further changes, including a possible relocation into the town centre.

"We reiterate that change needs to occur and the current model of provision will need to evolve and adapt as budgets are reduced. However, we believe that through working together, enormous value can be added."