North Cardiff Libraries Saved From Closure

Seven Cardiff libraries that were under threat of closure have been saved – for now.

Libraries at Whitchurch, Rhiwbina, Radyr, Rhydypennau, Rumney, Cathays and Roath were at risk of closure since draft budget proposals were published last autumn. But the decision by the city’s ruling Labour group to continue funding has given the libraries a reprieve.

It follows a huge public outcry against the closures, although the new funding needs to be ratified by the authority’s cabinet. It is expected to go through the budget setting meeting without opposition.

The Council has said that it will still be looking at alternative ways of providing library services to the city. Councillor Graham Hinchey, the council’s cabinet member for Corporate Services and Performance, said a new unit would be created to explore partnerships and other ways of ‘delivering library services’.

More to follow