WHITCHURCH library will now be closed until further notice as investigations into the discovery of crumbling concrete continue at the Civic Centre.

Whitchurch proper officer, Mike McDonald, had said this week that the library was to close until Monday, September 18 after reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (RAAC) was found in roof beams.

However, he has now confirmed – along with Shropshire Council – that the library will be closed for an indefinite period, stating that safety is a priority for all.

He said: “This is both unfortunate but unavoidable in the circumstances and we continue to work closely with our Shropshire Council colleagues.

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“Telephone and email contact with the town council is being maintained in the interim, while we confirm alternative arrangements for a limited reception hub service elsewhere.

“Please keep an eye on our social media – @wtcwhitchurch – for important updates.

“In the meantime we thank everyone for their understanding and co-operation; however, the safety of the public, our patrons and staff has to be the main priority at this time.”

Shropshire Council said that registrar services usually carried out at the Civic Centre will be temporarily housed in Market Drayton.

The call to close the library for a longer period came after work took place to install roof props in the library, to enable it to remain open.

However, following further investigations by Shropshire Council’s structural engineer, it has been agreed that the library will close until more intrusive investigations have been carried out.

Dean Carroll, Shropshire Council’s Cabinet member for housing and assets, said staff had tried to find ways to remain open but safety became an issue.

He said: “Closure of the library is a situation we have been trying to avoid, but there is significant evidence of increasing deflection and additional cracking in certain areas of the library, and this has worsened following recent heavy rain.

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“As the safety of our staff and customers is paramount we have therefore take the decision to close the library until further notice while further investigations take place.”

Shropshire Council added that on current advice, the Market Hall to the rear of the building can remain open and will be accessed from the rear car park.

He added that the situation will be under constant review.