Libraries in Hoylake, Pensby and Irby could be closed

Nov 26 2008 by Carrie Catterall, Heswall News

HOYLAKE, Pensby and Irby libraries could close under massive cuts planned by Wirral Council.

West Kirby Concourse and Heswall Library would be retained under the plans but would be developed as “multi-purpose complexes”, housing 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.

Other proposals could include:

l Ivy Farm, Pensby Community Centre, Kylemore Community Centre and Alexander Hall transferred from council control to community management

l Heswall Hall which currently operates without a joint management committee, is being considered for alternative management arrangements.

l Transferring Hoylake Community Centre and Westbourne Hall to community management.

The proposals, which will be considered by councillors tomorrow (Thursday) cover all areas of the borough and could also see Pacific Road closed as an arts centre.

Historic Birkenhead Central Library would also be closed and library services moved to Europa Pools.

West Kirby councillor and Wirral Conservative leader Jeff Green said: “I think these plans are disgraceful.

“Cabinet have put Wirral up for sale and as usual the approach is not about residents or what the young and old need - it’s shocking.

“This is all being driven by cuts and I’ll believe in these proposed new super facilities when I see them.

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

Council leader Steve Foulkes said: “Doing nothing was never an option. 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.”