Legal review rules in favour of library closure

A series of Doncaster libraries will be closed and staff members cut following a Libraries Judicial Review at Leeds Combined Court.

A judge ruled in favour of the mayor of Doncaster Peter Davies, who, in a bid to save council funds, had proposed that two libraries in the authority be closed and volunteers run a further 12.

In March, Davies overruled a vote from two thirds of councillors in favour of the allocation of funding to the libraries. A resident of Doncaster launched the legal challenge against his decision last month.

Davies affirmed that he was pleased with the decision but remained disappointed that the process had used a great deal of council resources.

‘This was never a decision that was taken lightly but it was necessary in order to make the required savings. Over 300 volunteers have signed up and pledged their time to volunteer in our libraries for free and keep them open for the communities. I am delighted with the success they have become.

‘This case should never have been taken to court,’ Davies added. ‘I am furious that this has now cost the taxpayers of Doncaster over £30,000. At a time of cutbacks, this is money that could have helped to save jobs.’