WINCHESTER'S council boss has attempted to dampen controversy over the future of the city library.

The Daily Echo has revealed that the county council is looking into uniting the lending and reference library on the Jewry Street site.

It would mean taking away many, if not most, of the 100 spaces in the car park behind the library -- to the chagrin of city traders.

John Steel, city council leader, has issued a statement.

He said: "There is growing speculation in the press about Hampshire County Council's desire to develop the existing city library site and the effects that this may have on car parking in the area.

"The city council supports the desire to keep the library HQ in the county town but wants to see a number of issues addressed."

Mr Steel said discussions were at an early stage and solely between council officials with none between councillors.

He stressed the city council want-ed to ensure that sufficient parking was provided in the vicinity before any redevelopment was agreed.

Mr Steel said: "The present library is a listed building and therefore architecturally very sensitive.

"There are also concerns about the Jewry Street site because of the potential effect on car parking and the public conveniences that are currently located there.

"The city council wants to ensure that any proposals consider the impact on the area as a whole and not just the library site."

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