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Library campaigners in Bolton today reacted with dismay to Bolton Council's unanimous decision yesterday (11th October) to proceed with the closure of five branch libraries, a third of the network.
The council plans to save £400,000 by the closure of the libraries, in Astley Bridge, Oxford Grove, Heaton, Highfield and Castle Hill, despite over 15,000 residents signing petitions against the plans.
Campaign secretary Ian McHugh said: "Although hardly unexpected, this is a deeply disappointing decision, which we feel has ignored local opinion, and been poorly thought through. We do not believe these savings were necessary and they will make life worse for many vulnerable people in our community, especially families with children and people who can't get around as easily."
The group said they were now completing a dossier of evidence to submit to the Secretary of State for Culture Media and Sport, asking for there to be a local inquiry into the closure decision.