Denham urges Council not to close Cobbett Road library

John DenhamLabour MP John Denham has urged Southampton’s Liberal Democrat-controlled council not to go ahead with their proposal to close Cobbett Road library.  In advance of tomorrow’s annual council budget setting meeting, he has emailed the Liberal Democrat Cabinet Member for Leisure, Councillor Steve Sollitt, asking him to give an assurance that any changes to the libraries budget will not result in the closure of the library.

John Denham, who represents the Southampton Itchen seat said “I first heard about the closure plans just over a week ago and was shocked and disappointed that the demolition of this important local facility was being considered.  I rushed out a letter last weekend asking people in the surrounding roads what they thought.  So far, in that short time, well over 100 people have contacted me to say that the library should not close.
 
“The City Council’s budget proposals do not spell out that Cobbett Road should be closed but they do include a proposal to save Ł50,000 from the libraries budget by reorganisation including the possible closure of branches.  I am looking for a promise that any changes to the library budget should not close Cobbett Road.”

  • Library users are expected to join the lobby on the Civic Centre steps from 1.30-2pm tomorrow, ahead of the budget meeting at 2pm.
 

We're not currently accepting new comments on this site

We're reader powered! Please help us keep publishing today...

Our local news is currently free to view, but not to produce. Join people just like you who already chip in to keep our site going by becoming a 'Good Friend' supporter for just £2.99 a month - or more if you can.

Use the subscribe button below using a debit or credit card securely via PayPal. You don't need a PayPal account - just use the "Pay with Debit or Credit Card' option, when you click the 'Subscribe' button below, on the next screen. There's no obligation to open a PayPal account. Or use your existing PayPal account if you prefer. Or even better, contact us to set up a standing order so we get all your sub rather than PayPal taking a percentage.

Click here for other options/to set up a standing order - and help us keep on keeping on.

It's appreciated!

Subcription Options

 

Alternatively make a one-off donation here - you don't need a PayPal account for this option either.