A legal covenant that casts doubt on a possible library relocation has been discovered.

Haringey Council's opposition Liberal Democrats claim Muswell Hill library in Queens Avenue could be relocated as part of cuts set out in documents in December.

But last week the Lib Dems unearthed a legal covenant from the Land Registry that they claim says the building ‘shall not be used for any purpose other than that of a Branch Public Library or other public non-trading purpose.’

The Labour-led council held a month-long consultation on a range of ideas to save £70m over the next three years to accommodate cuts to funding from central government, including the future of the library.

The proposals surrounding the library prompted a furious backlash from the Liberal Democrats who launched a campaign to keep the library in its current state.

They warn the library could be moved to a new location on the high street or a purpose built facility as part of the regeneration of the existing site.

MP for Hornsey & Wood Green Lynne Featherstone launched a petition to save the library, which attracted more than 1,300 signatures.

Ms Featherstone said: “The discovery of the covenant adds even more pressure on Labour to think again. Local residents, Lib Dem councillors and I will keep campaigning until the plans are officially withdrawn from the council’s budget proposals.”

The council has denied that there are any plans to close the library, pointing out that the budget cut proposals are not definite plans.

A council statement said: “As we have repeatedly stated, there are absolutely no plans to close Muswell Hill Library.

“We know how much residents value their libraries and we remain committed to keeping all nine open and ensuring they provide high quality facilities and community space, both now and in the future.

“We will take the covenant into consideration as we look at a range of options for improving Muswell Hill library.”

The council has promised to continue talking to people in Haringey following the consultation.

Haringey Council leader Councillor Claire Kober said: “The response to the consultation has underlined the very strong pride and affection that people in Haringey feel for their borough and their services.

“This is by no means the end of the conversation, we will continue to talk to people across the borough and we remain committed to working together to support our communities.”

The council’s cabinet will consider proposals, including consultation feedback, on Tuesday February 10 before final budget proposals go before the council on Monday February 23.