EXTRA government cash is needed to revamp Warrington Central and Stockton Heath branches have been identified as needing major works and could benefit from capital bids, according to a report to the town's Cultural Development Committee.

It could result in the relocation of the 140-year old Museum Street library - which is thought to be inadequate as a library headquarters.

Chief Librarian Janet Hill told councillors two major exercises, which should stop the glass roof leaking and provide new wiring, were set to take place.

The facilities are "cramped" and parking was a "severe problem". Difficulties remained with disabled access despite improvements.

She added: "There is quite a backlog, particularly with some of the interiors, which are not easy jobs.

"There needs to be some remodelling because times have changed and things have to be taken into account like security and more space for information technology for the public to use. There is a limited amount of money for that."

Overcrowding is the main problem at Stockton Heath, say library chiefs, and a capital bid could provide an extension to the Alexandra Park building. Other drawbacks also include poor parking provision and problems with vandalism.

Cultural development chairman Clr Terry Whelan said it was possible to extend the village library because there was sufficient space around the building.

"The usage at Stockton Heath is terriffic and is almost up to Warrington Central. It may make a difference if we built one out at Pewterspear," added Clr Whelan.

Chief executive Steven Broomhead said bids for extra library regeneration could find favour in the next round of capital spending.

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