Cllr George Brown announced at the Cabinet meeting tonight changes to the proposed closures to nine of eleven libraries across the Isle of Wight.
He told members of the Cabinet and the public audience that the council had received a “very gratifying total response” to the consulation which ended at 5pm yesterday (Monday 7th Feb)
He explained that the opening hours for Sandown, Ventnor, Freshwater and Cowes were to be extended following the consultation. From April 2011 for one year they would be open 21 hrs per week for one year (more on this tomorrow).
After that period, it was anticipated that those core libraries would by run by volunteers.
East Cowes, Bembridge, Brighstone and Niton would be continued for a further three months rather than closing on 31st March.
Cllr Brown went on to explain that the changes referred to above would add an additional £100k on to the budget.
Finshing his address, he told the meeting that this amendment was not a comprehensive reply, “that will come later” he said.
Image: © Isle of Wight council
