HIGHBRIDGE Library could close after it was revealed as one of the worst performing in the county.

Cllr Mike Mansfield stunned fellow members with the announcement at the latest full Burnham and Highbridge Town Council meeting on Monday.

Cllr Mansfield, who attended a recent meeting to discuss the future of the library service, said: “There will be cuts to the library service but we don't know what they will be or what will close.

“But we know Highbridge will close as it is one of the worst performing libraries there is.”

He also revealed the facility, which is based at Alpha House in Market Street, could be redeveloped as flats.

Highbridge ward councillor Janet Keen raised concerns for children's reading sessions which are held at the library and the future of the talking books scheme.

Fellow Highbridge councillor Chris Williams added: “If it closes we should point out that it provides a considerable social function in the town and we really do need a library there.”

Somerset County Council says it is reviewing its library service to make sure it is 'financially suitable' for the future and wants to hear from groups potentially interested in helping to run the service.

A spokesman said: “No decisions have been made on the future of any individual libraries, and none will be made until the budget for 2011/2012 has been agreed.

“Any significant service changes are likely to be preceded by some local consultation.”

The review is likely to be considered by the county council's Cabinet on November 1.