Libraries in Bromborough, Bebington and New Ferry facing closure

Nov 26 2008 by Lorna Hughes, Bromborough and Bebington News

LIBRARIES in Bromborough, Higher Bebington and New Ferry are facing the axe in a massive review of Wirral Council’s buildings and facilities.

Mayer Hall in Bebington is also recommended for closure, subject to a review of provision and consultation with trustees.

Bromborough Library and Civic Centre would be closed under the proposals but Bebington Civic Centre would remain open and developed as a “multi-purpose complex”, incorporating library, community and council services.

The radical proposals are part of the council’s strategic asset review to tackle rising energy costs and a £10m repair bill for ageing buildings.

The changes could include:

l A smaller multi-purpose complex based around Eastham Library and One Stop Shop

l New Ferry Village Hall, Delamere Community Centre and Victoria Hall transferred to community management

The proposals cover all areas of the borough and could also see Birkenhead Central Library closed and services transferred to Europa Pools.

Guinea Gap Baths is also earmarked for closure and Pacific Road is set to be closed as an arts centre, with arts events moving to the Floral Pavilion in New Brighton.

The council wants to spend £20m developing 12 ‘multi-purpose complexes’ across the borough, including five ‘major multi-purpose complexes’, in partnership with organisations like Wirral PCT, Merseyside Police and Merseyside Fire Service.

Councillor Steve Foulkes, leader of Wirral Council, said: “If we leave things as they are we will be left with crumbling buildings, mounting repair costs and escalating levels of council tax.

“Change is never easy and we understand that people can become attached to the buildings that they use and which are familiar to them.

“These proposals are rightly radical and comprehensive and will have implications for residents across the borough, not to mention many of our own staff.”

Wirral Conservative leader Jeff Green said the plans were “disgraceful”.

He added: “Cabinet have put Wirral up for sale and as usual the approach is not about residents or what the young and old need.

“Once again it’s the public that has to pay the price.”

Cabinet members will consider the proposals tomorrow night (Thursday).