Wolverhampton libraries face closure

Nine libraries and seven community centres in Wolverhampton face being shut down or moved, it was revealed today, as council bosses unveiled details of controversial merger plans.

Under the proposals, libraries, youth centres and community centres would relocate under one roof at venues across the city, with some facilities closed down completely.

Council bosses hope the changes will save them £1.1 million over the next two years – around £600,000 of which will come from staff cuts.

Library users around the city today said they were "very concerned" at the plans and vowed to fight to save services.

A 12-week public consultation will begin on Wednesday.

Under the plans, over the next five years, 12 smaller "community hubs" providing library, community centres and youth services would be created, along with three larger community service hubs.

These would be based in Heath Town, Bilston and Warstones and would provide the same service, alongside childrens' social care, and family support services.

Under the proposals, Tettenhall Library and Central Library would be the only ones in the city to remain as single-purpose buildings.

Libraries in Ashmore Park, Bilston, East Park, Finchfield, Low Hill, Penn, Spring Vale, Warstones and Whitmore Reans would go. A report to go to cabinet next week, reveals the council also hopes to spend £3m on revamping centres.

By Charlotte Cross