Possible cuts to library services in Powys is “a bit alarming” however it is “not a case for Llanidloes to panic,” said a local county councillor.

Cllr Gareth Morgan (Liberal Democrat, Llanidloes) said at a town council meeting that other town libraries may begin to “feel the heat” from Powys County Council (PCC).

He said: “I’m fairly calm about it at the moment because we are ahead of the game as far as contributing to the overheads are concerned.

“There are a number of places within the county where the pressure is going to be exerted.”

It follows comments made by PCC Portfolio Holder for Young People and Culture, Cllr Rachel Powell (Independent, Beguildy) at a scrutiny committee meeting held on January 13.

Cllr Powell said: “Every library is unique and we are reliant on the strength of the communities to work with us to keep them maintained.

“I can’t give assurance that they will all stay open, all I can do is say I will do my best to work with communities, because it is something that is valued.”

County Times:

Addressing town councillors at Llanidloes Town Hall on January 27, Cllr Morgan said: “I don’t want it spread that Llani is OK, but I’m optimistic. We do very well in Llani in contributing towards it but there are others who have not done anything like we have. So I think they will feel the heat.”

Mayor of Llanidloes, Cllr Janet Crisp praised the town council for keeping good relations with Powys County Council.

She said: “Well, I hope with the amount of work we put into keeping the library going, we do a lot, lot more than other places.

“We seem to have gone on their right side.”

Cllr Morgan added: “We were the first to move. We took action immediately, way before anyone else and they haven’t forgotten that.

“People were always willing to go that extra mile to help themselves in Llani, with enormous support of this council, which I am extremely grateful.

“I know the whole town and the surrounding areas are equally grateful.”