RESIDENTS in Newport are being asked to play a role in determining future options for the town’s library and visitor information centre.

The operation of both facilities – which occupy separate premises in the town – are being considered in light of significant funding cuts.

Pembrokeshire County Council, which runs the library, and the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority, which manages the visitor centre, are working with Newport Town Council to look at future options for the services.

Elaine Lloyd, chairman of the Town Council, said: “It’s important that we’re all on the same page and that people don't think we're making decisions behind closed doors."

That is why residents are being asked to forward their suggestions to the Town Council by emailing elainelloyd3197@fsmail.net

Mrs Lloyd said: “We don’t want any closures; we haven’t got many facilities in Newport as it is and we can’t afford to let either the library or visitor centre go.

“We want to find a solution where both can stay open, as they’re both very well used.

“The ideal situation would be to move the library to the visitor centre, which is probably big enough to accommodate both. It is also opposite a car park, which is ideal as a lot of the library users are elderly.”

Representatives from the Town Council, the National Park and the County Council are due to meet in Newport on September 25 to look at potential sites.

The Cabinet Member for Culture, Sport and Leisure, Councillor Elwyn Morse, said a range of options were being considered.

“We have agreed that a site options appraisal is required and we hope that the people of Newport support the partnership and our efforts to find an innovative solution.”

Councillor Morse said that any proposals for change that the partnership recommended would go out to consultation to customers.

He added: “One thing is certain though, because of the large cuts in public funding the current situation regarding the library is not a viable option.”