Hundreds of local residents have signed a growing petition urging North Somerset Council to reconsider the planned closure of Worle Library in Weston-super-Mare. The library is one of three in the area marked for closure as the council enacts a 20% budget cut in library services.
Over 500 people have signed the petition, warning that shutting down Worle Library would represent a significant setback for the community. Petition organizer Charlie Carey emphasized, “Worle Library is far more than just a building filled with books—it serves as a crucial cultural, educational, and social hub for our community.”
Originally housed in a purpose-built 1960s facility at the Maltings, Worle Library was relocated in 2017 to the same building as the children’s centre as part of cost-saving measures. However, in February 2025, wet rot and damp were discovered in the century-old former school building, with the council stating it cannot afford the extensive repairs necessary to maintain the premises.
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Alongside Worle, Winscombe and Pill libraries also face closure under the council’s budget reductions. The council has indicated one of these two could remain open if they cut an additional £10,000 from new book purchases and cease Monday openings at the Bournville Health Living Centre library. Remaining council-run libraries would also experience varied reductions in operating hours.
The council has proposed that libraries facing closure might continue to operate on a limited basis if parish or town councils assume responsibility, similar to the model adopted by Congresbury Library since 2017. A public consultation on these proposals is open until October 24.
Charlie Carey, who started the petition on change.org, described Worle Library as a “lifeline” offering access to books, internet services, and diverse programs that encourage lifelong learning and community interaction. “Closing the library would eliminate a safe, welcoming environment where people gather, learn, and build connections,” Carey said.
Local schools, especially Mendip Green Primary School, rely heavily on Worle Library resources, and its closure would profoundly affect education in the area. The library also plays a vital role in reducing loneliness and fostering social inclusion.
Carey urged the council to seek alternative solutions rather than closing a critical community resource: “Whether through community-led initiatives, alternative funding, or reallocating existing budgets, there are ways to keep Worle Library open and thriving.”
North Somerset Council’s cabinet member for culture, leisure, and outdoor spaces, Mike Solomon, acknowledged the community’s strong attachment to local libraries. “Our libraries are loved and central to communities,” he said, emphasizing the need to create a fair, accessible, and sustainable library service that meets evolving community needs while achieving the required £433,000 savings.
The council is working toward a savings target of £44 million over three years, with specific library budget cuts set to be decided in February 2026 and enacted between summer 2026 and September 2028.
Solomon encouraged residents to participate in the consultation, saying, “Your feedback will help us deliver library services in new, sustainable ways that meet community needs within available resources.”
The public consultation remains open until October 24.