The controversy over the future of a popular high street cafe, Kelly's Kitchen and the town's library has reared it's head once again.  A redesigned scheme to expand the Druitt Library which is a Grade II listed building of the Georgian era into the cafe adjoining the library has been drawn up by Dorset County council.  The cafe is in located in part of the listed building.

This revised scheme follows the withdrawal of a previous proposal due to objections from borough planners and heritage groups.  Their concern was based on the impact to a grade II listed building standing in the town conservation area.

The biggest voice to object was the cafe owners, Rose and Terry Kelly who lease the cafe.  They were supported by objections from over 2000 loyal customers. Kelly's Kitchen is a popular cafe open all day, every day with residents and visitors alike.

Dorset County council the owners of the building will make the final decision on any plans and has been discussions with the Kelly's since the lease ran out in 2003.

"Obtaining planning permission and funding is some way off" said Cllr. David crowhurst, county council cabinet member for adult and community services.  "We are aware that local people have concerns over the future of Kelly's Kitchen and we have no intention of moving Kelly's until we are ready to start work" he added.

Library chiefs say the expansion of the library into the restaurant area is necessary to cater for the 5000 plus visitors per week to the library who require more space for extra books, computer terminals, study areas and better seating.  The upper floor would be used to relocate the county registration service and provide a community meeting room.

Compared to other county main libraries Christchurch's library is under provisioned.  Cramed areas, less space for books, lack of facilities to study and the childrens activity areas inadequate.

Before a decision is made by the county council planning committee the revised scheme will now go back for comments from the borough council and to public consultation.