Archaeological investigation prior to building of Ledbury’s new library

Herefordshire Council has put in place an archaeological evaluation at the Masters House in Ledbury, which is the site of a £2.9-million library and community complex for the town.

Before the design brief for the library is finalised, the council is engaging an archaeological investigation company to dig a 20 square metre trench to search for any possible remains. Work begins on Monday (8 June 2008) and is likely to take a week, with an evaluation report presented within a further two weeks.

Herefordshire Council plans a new library with access for disabled people within the St Katherine's area of the high street, together with a new information centre, a tourist information centre and visitor attraction with a focus for local history and culture, as well as further space for use by the community.

Councillor Adrian Blackshaw, cabinet member for economic development and community services, said: "The archaeological investigation is routine for any development in a site of historic interest like St Katherine's.

"Any find will be assessed with a view to adding interest and value to the plans for a new showcase library and community complex, which will help further encourage more visitors to boost the economy of Ledbury for the benefit of local people".