Conwy councils condemn library proposals

Dec 23 2010 by Ian Hughes, North Wales Weekly News

TOWYN and Kinmel Bay Town Council has pledged to support the fight to save Kinmel Bay Library from closure.

The library is just one of a number under threat throughout Conwy.

Conwy County Borough Council has agreed to consult on the closure.

Cerrigydrudion, Deganwy, Kinmel Bay, Llandudno Junction, Llanfairfechan, Penmaenmawr and Penrhyn Bay all face an uncertain future.

Assembly Member for Clwyd West Darren Millar is leading the campaign to save the library.

He has held urgent meetings this week and Towyn and Kinmel Bay Town Council has pledged its support.

Speaking following a meeting with representatives of the Council, Darren said: “The fight to save Kinmel Bay Library is gathering support and I’m delighted that Towyn and Kinmel Bay Town Council have given my campaign their backing.

“We need to do everything we can to ensure the library stays open. It’s an important facility for the local community and book loans are increasing.”

Conwy County Borough Councillors John Bevan, William Knightly, Geoff Corry and Stuart Anderson have all expressed their dismay at the potential closure.

The Mayor of the Town Council, Ken Stone, added his criticism.

“The Town Council have worked hard to develop community facilities in the area including the Community Centre adjoining the Library,” he said.

“I am very disappointed Conwy County Borough Council wants to undermine our efforts.”

A second option being considered would see Penmaenmawr and Cerrigydrudion libraries saved.

Cllr Henry Jones, Mayor of Penmaenmawr lamented the potential demise of his town’s library.

“It is difficult to get any campaign going as yet due to the snow.

“It would be very sad to see it go, it is a hub of the community. It has been serving the people for about 14 years.”

Penrhyn ward county councillor Chris Cater said he and colleague Linda Groom would fight the closure: “No-one can say the library is not well used with 12,126 visitors in a year and 23,697 items loaned.”

Llandudno Junction Cllr Mike Priestley said: “I urge all the people to take part in the library consultation.

“I'd be sad to see the library go in Llandudno Junction, but if a brand new regional library was built in the Junction it would be a good thing.”

Consultation on the proposals is now open until early February.