Essex: Give the public a proper say on mobile libraries

1.58.18pm GMT Mon 20th Nov 2006

Liberal Democrats at Essex County Council have called into question the Tory administration's plans for public consultation over proposals to reduce the number of mobile library services across the county. Conservatives at county hall are proposing that all mobile library stops within two miles of a static library will be dropped. The two miles is simply an arbitrary 'as the crow flies' distance which takes no account of the actual distance by road or the much longer bus routes.

Cllr Mike Mackrory, Liberal Democrats deputy leader said: "The Conservatives are looking at making their decision on axing mobile library services early in December and they say they can consult fully during that time. We find that hard to believe as information is only just going out now and there has been virtually no other publicity informing the public they can have a say. This is disappointing, as we know how important mobile libraries are to many residents especially those least able to move around. However this is dressed up, this proposal is a cut to a much valued service."

ENDS