THE owner of Kelly’s Kitchen in Christchurch has asked Dorset County Council for a date for work to start on the proposed library extension.

The High Street library is due to expand into the eatery following a High Court action, which saw the contested planning permission upheld earlier this year.

Owner Terry Kelly said: “We want to see proof that they are going to go ahead with it.

“We understand and accept they have got planning permission and will not make things difficult for them.

“But we do want to trade every day we can before the last possible moment we have to leave.

“The last thing we want to see is another closed up shop in Christchurch – another faceless shop unit.

“With the consultation happening on whether to close libraries in Dorset it still makes little sense for all this money to be spent on just one. But I understand this is their decision.”

Paul Leivers, head of community services for Dorset County Council said: “We understand that Mr and Mrs Kelly are willing to vacate the premises if Dorset County Council can demonstrate to them the works to expand Christchurch library are ready to go ahead.

“We have confirmed we are ready to proceed with the main extension project, which will involve utilising the part of the county council owned building currently occupied by Kelly’s Kitchen, and have provided the necessary information to Mr and Mrs Kelly’s solicitor as requested.

“We now hope to clarify a date for the vacation of the premises shortly.”