Campaigners rallying to save Worle Library will learn this Monday whether a new plan to keep the library open will move forward.
Worle Library was slated for closure by North Somerset Council following a 20% budget cut to local library services and due to costly repairs needed at the building. However, there is renewed optimism as Weston-super-Mare Town Council explores the possibility of taking over its management as a community library.
Catherine Gibbons, Labour councillor representing Milton ward on both the town and North Somerset councils, has submitted a motion to the town council meeting on Monday, June 29. Her motion urges the council to investigate the feasibility of running Worle Library as a community-led facility.
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In a Facebook post, Ms. Gibbons emphasized, “This motion is not about reopening old debates. It’s about acknowledging everything local people have already shared and ensuring Weston Town Council is ready to support a sustainable community library for Worle.”
Local author and active campaigner Nick Smart, who wrote his book at Worle Library, expressed hope on Facebook: “Regardless of Monday’s outcome, I’m proud of what our community has achieved. But I truly believe this is a moment for us to do something positive and lasting for Worle.”
Smart added, “We’ve identified a potential new venue and found a realistic opportunity for a community library model that keeps this vital service alive in Worle. I’m grateful for the backing of our MP, Dan Aldridge, and everyone who has supported the campaign so far.”
The closure decision was part of North Somerset Council’s February resolution to cut funding for both Worle Library and Winscombe Library to save £433,000, while choosing to keep Pill Library open. This decision followed consultations where the preferred option was closing at least two of the three libraries. Pill’s Green Party councillor Jenna Ho Marris criticized the council for “pitting one community against another.”
Originally, Worle Library’s closure was set for September 7. At that time, the council stated it would consider “alternative provision in Worle,” including a community library model managed by Weston-super-Mare Town Council.
The town council will convene at 7 pm on Monday, June 29, at Weston-super-Mare Town Hall to discuss the motion.