IT looks as if Cinderford Library – earmarked for takeover by the community or possible closure in the county council's budget cut plans – has been saved, although not in its present form.

A spokesman says Gloucestershire County Council has listened to residents, businesses and MP Mark Harper and has redesigned its plans to ensure it stays open.

However the new plans have to be agreed by the cabinet this week and approved at a full council meeting on February 16.

"The council is listening to what people said and is proposing Cinderford become a Library Express, which will open 32 hours a week," said the spokes-

man.

"Discussions will continue within the community to see how the library can fit into the wider plans for the town and develop further in future."

County Councillor for Cinderford Graham Morgan said: "This is excellent news for Cinderford and I am extremely pleased.

"I know that people think consultations are pointless, but this just shows that they do work and that the council is listening."

County council leader Mark Hawthorne said: "The plans on the table now ensure the library remains at the heart of the community and they provide scope for possibly developing into a community hub in the future."