A COMMUNITY bid to take over a former library has been approved by Lancashire County Council.

The former Trawden Library will reopen as a community shop, a Post Office and bring back a library service to the village.

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The campaign was led by trustees of the successful Trawden Community Centre, who took control of the building in Church Street a few years ago.

The library, along with several others across the county, closed its doors in October as the council strived to save £220million imposed by central Government.

The library cuts were part of a number of children centres axed.

More than 50 letters of support were sent to the county council for the former library, also in Church Street, to be revived.

The shop would be run by volunteers and money raised would be spent on improving the village.

County Cllr Paul White, who represents the area, as well as Pendle’s MP, Andrew Stephenson, also supported the bid.

Cllr White said he was excited to see the building have a use again.

He said: “I am delighted that this community led campaign has been successful and thank all of the volunteers who have put their time and effort into making sure this happens.

“Trawden is without a shop and post office now and this will provide a great facility.

“I was never in any doubt that this would be the right use having seen the wonderful work going on a Trawden Forest Community Centre and the success there has been there.

“It will provide a much needed service in this rural village.

“The number of people who contacted me in support of this project was unprecedented and I’m glad those voices have been heard at County Hall.

“I’d like to thank those people who got in touch with me.

“This is a very positive development for the village of Trawden.”

The Trawden Forest Community Centre is self-funded and costs are met through user fees and supplemented fundraising.

Mr Stephenson said it was terrific to see the service back in use.

He said: “I think the volunteers at the community centre have done a tremendous job in converting it from a poorly run council building into a much needed vital centre for groups.

“I look forward to seeing it full once again.”