A WIRRAL library is set to open its doors to provide shelter for the homeless.

Working in conjunction with Wirral Ark and other community and church groups, Wirral Council will open Birkenhead Central library for one night a week to provide shelter over the winter months.

Known as Arklight, the project will begin in February under a trial basis and will be staffed by trained volunteers from Wirral Ark.

The library will provide sleeping facilities for a maximum of 12 people with the charity providing sleeping mats and bedding.

Ark volunteers will be responsible for removing these items the next morning as well as ensuring that the space is returned to normal working conditions the next day.

Council cabinet member for leisure and recreation Cllr Phill Brightmore said: “It’s desperately sad that some people are left with so few choices they have to sleep on the streets, and this initiative will hopefully make a difference to some of those."