Book to reopen on library closure plan

Huddersfield Daily Examiner (Huddersfield, England), June 24, 2009

Byline: BARRY GIBSON

AN investigation has been ordered into a controversial library closure.

Last week Kirklees Council's cabinet decided to shut New Mill Library to save pounds 41,000 a year.

But now the opposition Conservatives have "called in" the decision to a special scrutiny panel which will investigate how the decision was made.

The panel could advise the Labour / Lib Dem cabinet to reverse the decision.

Conservative leader Clr Jim Dodds said the ruling parties had not listened to people in New Mill.

He said: "We believe the closure of New Mill Library is completely unjustified, and the savings involved in this cost cutting exercise are minimal, especially when compared to the loss of service in this community.

"The cabinet have failed to listen to arguments put forward to stop this closure, and they have failed to consult with local people or listen to representations that have been made.

"Many people believe the decision to close New Mill is a purely political one. I hope that is not the case and that a fair scrutiny process will force the cabinet to reverse their closure plans." Cabinet member for regeneration Clr Christine Stanfield said: "I don't think this is fair criticism but people are perfectly free to make these allegations if they want." The scrutiny panel will meet at 9.30am on July 2 at Huddersfield Town Hall.

Meanwhile, a Huddersfield man has said he doesn't want a new library on his doorstep - if it means people in New Mill losing their library.

Bernard McGuin of Syringa Street said: "The only reason the council is closing New Mill is to save money, yet they plan to build a new library in the Marsh House. There are already libraries in Lindley and Birkby, so I don't feel we need one in Marsh." Council leader Clr Mehboob Khan, who represents the area, declined to comment..

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NEW HOPE: New Mill library