Library cuts consultation relaunched

A public consultation on plans to close and merge libraries and community centres in Wolverhampton has been relaunched – in a blow to campaigners who are fighting to see the proposals altered or scrapped.

Thousands of people across the city have already signed petitions against the plans, which would see nine libraries and seven community centres closed or merged, claiming the heart would be ripped out of their communities.

The plans by the city council would see the libraries and centres replaced with "community hubs" incorporating other services.

The consultation was suspended after councillors demanded a chance to question leisure leaders behind the plans. But it has now been relaunched and members of the public urged to have their say.

Councillor Neville Patten, who called the issue in for scrutiny, said : "It just feels that they will do what they want regardless of what the consultation says."

Council communities chief Councillor Elias Mattu said: "These proposals are designed to protect and improve library, youth and community services in the face of cuts."

The consultation runs until October 24.