Tories forced to consult on closure

5.19.29pm GMT Thu 24th Nov 2005

Liberal Democrat Councillors have forced the Conservative run West Berkshire Council to u-turn on their policy to close Thatcham library for a whole month during the delayed refurbishment.

Thatcham library is the second busiest local library in the district.

In the Executive report on the Library refurbishment, from the Conservative Executive Member Cllr Marcus Franks, it was stated that

"The library will need to be closed for up to 4 weeks for the work to be carried out. No replacement service will be made available for this period …. They can also use any other library of course"

Cllr Jeffery questioned why the Conservatives had failed to consult with any other organisations to try and seek assistance to maintain the service in the second busiest library in West Berkshire. He said he had already asked officers at Thatcham Town Council whether the Town Council could provide space for a mobile library to maintain the service for residents. "I am delighted that the Town Council appear likely to be able to do this," said Cllr Jeffery.

Cllr Owen Jeffery (Lib Dem Thatcham South & Crookham) added "The Conservative administration seemed to think it would be fine to shut Thatcham's library for a whole month without any local alternative provision. What about the elderly? What about those with mobility difficulties? What about those studying at Kennet or Trinity schools?"

"As soon as I read this report I started talking to local bodies to see if the services could be maintained. I am pleased that West Berkshire Council has committed to consult about maintaining some service in Thatcham during the much needed refurbishments to the library. Residents will be watching closely to see whether they deliver."