THE business plan created to run Monmouth's recently refurbished and historic Shire Hall has been described as unworkable.

Monmouthshire councillors have now put forward an emergency interim revenue plan, which includes the provision of temporary staff to support officers already in position at the Hall.

The building, first constructed in 1724, has just benefitted from a £4.5 million restoration project, partially funded by a grant from the Heritage Lottery.

The council's Cabinet agreed for a period of consultation in order that the Shire Hall, a Grade I Listed building, could be a revenue generating sustainable business, without being a burden on the local council tax payer.

The consultation will focus on the need to review and revise the current business plan that was drawn up before the recession started and has not been revisited since 2005.

Cllr Giles Howard said: "The recession has left us in an unfortunate position. It's like owning a Rolls Royce but not being able to afford the petrol money to run it."

Leader of the council, Cllr Peter Fox said: "Not having a workable business plan is a burden to us. We are therefore looking for good ideas and hope we can find some long term solutions."

Cllr Bob Greenland said: "I don't regret for one moment the cost of the refurbishment to the Shire Hall as it is a landmark building and a huge asset to Monmouth, but the process has now given us a headache to deal with."

Cllr Liz Hacket-Pain added: "As a Monmothian I know that the building means a lot to the people of this town and its restoration has helped in the regeneration of this part of town.

"There is a lot more for us to exploit with this building. We have education aspects to expand on as well as its historical merits."

The councillors agreed that developing a sustainable business plan for the Shire Hall was essential and the plan could help realise the wider social and economic benefits for the communities it serves.

Cllr Fox added: "To find a solution to this problem will be a definite challenge during these current times."