PLANS for a new reading garden at a Ramsgate library have been put on hold while new ideas are discussed.

Retired florist Jocelyn McCarthy's dream of creating a tranquil, relaxing spot in the gardens of Ramsgate Library may have to make way for a vegetable patch or even a children's play area.

He said: "We originally planned to take on the garden last year but now more people have got involved I'm concerned people will get an area that is too contrived."

Mr McCarthy, who is chairman of Friends of Ramsgate Library, hopes to create a reading space with borders, tables and some screening provided by shrubs.

District manager for Thanet libraries Jackie Taylor-Smith who looks after nine in total, has just completed a public consultation. She said: "We are working with Jocelyn. We asked residents if they'd like activities, a vegetable garden or an area linked to a children's book like Beatrix Potter.

"I think if we come up with a good design, we can get the best of both worlds."

Mrs Taylor-Smith is also considering a sensory garden for the visually impaired.

The library plans to publish consultation findings in the next few weeks.