ASSESSMENTS will be carried out at one of Northwich's historic buildings after town leaders said they fear it is falling apart.

Concerns have been raised about the state of Northwich Library, in Witton Street, which is a Grade II listed building.

Town mayor Clr Alison Gerrard said: "They've spent all that money on the front of the library making it look nice but when you walk up the side it's all flaking and seems to be really neglected.

"It's an iconic building of Northwich and it seems such a shame."

The building is at its worst at the side facing Macouti.

Cheshire West and Chester councillor Sam Naylor said: "They've put boards over the existing holes as a temporary measure but you can still see the holes and the window frames are rotted.

"It's a busy library, a real community resource."

Cheshire West and Chester Council (CWAC) looks after the library and was also behind the work to regenerate Witton Street and Brunner Court, next to the library.

Clr Lynn Riley, CWAC's executive member for localities, said: "Cheshire West and Chester Council libraries are undergoing a programme of investment.

"This programme aims to upgrade equipment and facilities so that our libraries remain vibrant community hubs that deliver an increasing range of council and partnership services to its local community.

“In the case of Northwich the Grade ll listed timber framed building is to undergo an in-depth assessment of the fabric of the building.

“Specialists, who have a long track record of working in Northwich’s conservation area with the council on historic buildings, are to undertake an initial assessment over the winter months and to prepare a more detailed assessment of the overall building condition, focussing on the historic timber frame."

Clr Gerrard said: "I don't know why they haven't started the assessment before because it's not just been for a few weeks.

"But I am really pleased that they're going to do something about it because it's a building that should be treasured."