THE town's flash new library was forced to close this morning after an unwanted smell lingered throughout the £22m development.

The Curve opened its doors to the public earlier this month, a welcomed upgrade on the old library.

However, staff were forced to turn away visitors after a pungent stench filled the floor space.

An employee said: "Unfortunately where we have laid down the new flooring there is a rather pungent smell coming from it.

"We have had to close for temporarily just to air it out but it will open again soon."

The Curve was expected to reopen around noon.