COUNCIL chiefs have approved controversial plans to move the Cordell Museum into Blaenavon Workmen's Hall.

The museum, which honours the works of the 20th century Welsh novelist Alexander Cordell, is to move from Blaenavon Library to cut costs.

The museum is to relocate to the workmen’s hall but critics fear facilities including its Dennis Puddle snooker room could be jeopardised as a result.

Meanwhile Blaenavon Library is to relocate to the World Heritage Centre in the town.

Torfaen cabinet backed the plans yesterday in a move expected to save £100,000.

Cordell's 1959 novel Rape of the Fair Country is part of a trilogy which tells the turbulent history of early industrial Wales and has been translated into 17 languages.

Chairman of Blaenavon Workmen’s Hall, Lewis Evans said he feared the loss of heritage in the moves, and the affect on the workmen's hall, which is one of the town's most historic buildings.

Blaenavon resident Freda York added: “The public do not want to lose the current library building as it’s lovely. If the council are going to sell it for assisted housing then it should be for the people of Blaenavon.”

Campaigner Susan Fiander-Woodhouse also collected nearly 40 signatures against the relocation plans.

But cabinet members argued the cost-cutting measures would help prevent a potential library closure and place the branch in a prime location.

The existing library in Lion Street is to be offered to other service areas within Torfaen council, but could also be disposed of, it was added.

Torfaen council deputy leader Cllr Lewis Jones said: “Although this is being forced on us, I think it is going to be of terrific benefit to the community and the services involved because Blaenavon is known as a heritage town.”

A Cabinet report on the relocation stated: “This will contribute to delivering the required £100,000 council’s savings for 2015/16, subject to staff and union consultation and a further report to the relevant executive members.”

Blaenavon Town Council Cllr Gareth Davies added: “It’s good news that a swift decision has been made on this after extensive consultation.

"Whilst Blaenavon Town Council recognises the financial difficulties pressuring local services, we are glad that the protection of both facilities has been prioritised.

“I am sure that the Blaenavon Community Heritage Museum collection and volunteers will enhance the Workmen's Hall and that the hall itself will be seen as a key exhibit in celebrating the rich industrial and social history of the town.”

It has previously been said that the Cordell Museum will be provided with a large committee room for its exhibition, along with the small committee room and some additional spaces within the hall.