An emerging “master plan” for Haverfordwest, which includes turning the Riverside Market in to a new county library and information centre, with cafe and gallery, is due to be discussed today (Monday).

A report by Pembrokeshire County Council’s (PCC) director of development, due to be discussed at a cabinet on Monday, recommends approval for the proposal to create a “21st century library, gallery and visitor centre” in the current market building.

It is suggested the development could provide a “catalyst” for other regeneration projects in the county town.

It suggests a potential partnership with the National Library of Wales (NLW) to create a gallery as part of the draw for the facility, plus a cafe.

The NLW is currently considering the proposal.

It is anticipated that the scheme could achieve annual visitor numbers to the facility in excess of 200,000, given that the old Dew Street site would attracted about 143,000 visits annually.

The potential move of the county library to riverside has been controversial with traders in the market fearful about what the plan would mean for their businesses.

A ‘Save Our Market’ petition with 431 signatures has been handed in to the council.

The report states traders will need to relocated to suitable premises and recognises that there will be a cost element. It proposes financial support for any move, including up to two years following the move.