UP to 20 jobs will be created during the construction of the £1.6-million new library complex in Tavistock.

EBC Construction Ltd is developing the Carr's Garage site in Plymouth Road — the contract includes a £500,000 purpose-built library and lifelong learning centre, offices and ten new homes for rent locally.

EBC moved onto the site this week and hoardings have been erected. The bulldozers are due to demolish the buildings within the next two weeks.

Robert Wood, EBC Construction Ltd area director said: 'We shall be creating up to 20 jobs during construction and, where possible, will recruit local tradesmen, sub-contractors and suppliers at all stages.'

EBC is working in partnership with the county council, borough council, West Devon Homes, Devon and Cornwall Housing Association and Capita Business Services to redevelop the site opposite Tavistock bus station.

Mr Wood said: 'All partners involved in this project have worked together over 12 months and have been spurred on through difficult issues by the importance of the site and the benefits the various community facilities will bring to the town.'

The redevelopment, the culmination of years of planning before a final nailbiting year of delicate negotiations, is expected to take 12 months.