The Welsh Conservatives have welcomed a High Court ruling which has halted Labour-run Caerphilly Council’s plans to shut ten libraries. A judge has granted an interim injunction, meaning the libraries must remain open until the ongoing legal challenge is resolved.
Commenting, Welsh Conservative Shadow Cabinet Secretary for Local Government & Housing, Joel James MS said:
While this is a positive step in keeping the libraries open, the Labour-run council must use this opportunity to reconsider their plans to close this essential service.
With the council currently sitting on more than £220 million in usable reserves, these proposed cuts to essential services are completely avoidable.
Residents will rightly ask why they are paying ever-increasing council tax bills, only to see essential services like libraries shut down. This must be addressed to ensure taxpayers’ money is directed towards protecting vital public services.
ENDS
