We won’t go quietly as they try to cut our services

Morecambe Library.
Morecambe Library.

You’ve probably heard that Morecambe Library is under threat; Lancashire County Council would have you believe their proposal to make Morecambe an unmanned library will not have a significant effect on the service provided. In reality, it will have a devastating effect on not only the library service, but all the various groups which use the library building.

Morecambe Library is a community hub and, if we accept this downgraded service, I fear it will be the thin edge of the wedge and the doors could be permanently closed in the next year or so, when further cuts are being considered.

Chairman  of Morecambe Carnival  organising committee David Brayshaw.

Chairman of Morecambe Carnival organising committee David Brayshaw.

There’s also the chance other libraries in our district will be reviewed: Heysham, Carnforth, Garstang and others, survived these cuts but may not survive the next swathe. We all need to come together and fight this decision, (although the county council would have us believe it’s only a proposal as yet and no decision has been made). There is currently a consultation questionnaire on the county council’s website. It is imperative as many people as possible complete this consultation; a large response will be harder for the county council to ignore.

Carla and I are also concerned about the proposed closure of the children’s centres in our area. These provide essential services to some of the most vulnerable members of our society.

Although I appreciate Government cuts are forcing the county council to make tough decisions and cut services, their proposals show a distinct lack of understanding of the essential community services they propose to cut. It is our duty to speak up for the people who are going to be affected by these cuts and persuade the county council to work with us to find alternative savings.

Please visit www.lancashire.gov.uk/council/get-involved and complete the consultation questionnaire. Morecambe Town Council has no authority over the county council but we can add our weight to the public voice and tell the county we are not going to quietly accept them closing essential services in Morecambe.

We have, therefore, called a Town Meeting on July 14, in Morecambe Parish Church War Memorial Hall at 6.30pm and we would encourage as many residents as possible attend this meeting and air your views.
https://www.lancasterguardian.co.uk/news/opinion/we-won-t-go-quietly-as-they-try-to-cut-our-services-1-7984719
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