A former library could be converted into a bar and restaurant.

And the developer behind it also has plans for flats to be created in the former Slaithwaite Library, which closed last year with the library service moving into the village’s town hall.

A planning application by an R Barker has been submitted for the Britannia Road building which, if approved, will see alterations to the interior to convert the first floor into a bar with restaurant, plus three self-contained flats above.

Other changes include altering the windows, with plans for folding doors leading to a balcony area for smokers.

A statement from David Storrie Planning, agent for the applicant, says: “The site lies within the Slaithwaite centre where there are a mixture of commercial uses.

“The use will assist in sustaining the attractiveness of the centre as well as providing much needed residential accommodation.

“The applicant intends to retain ownership of the flats and offer them to the rental market.

Slaithwaite Library.
The former Slaithwaite Library

“The proposed uses are considered to be appropriate in this location and offer an opportunity to provide visual enhancement to this part of the Slaithwaite conservation area.

“It provides a real opportunity to enhance and add interest to what is, at present, a rather drab frontage.”

The library closed last March and by September the building had been put up for auction, fetching £132,000 for Kirklees coffers, above its guide price of £95,000.

All library services in Kirklees face a review with community groups being asked to step up to save the service. The council is looking to slash its £6.3m library budget to £2.8m by 2017.