20,000 voice views on Hampshire libraries closure plan

Hampshire County Council launched a 10-week consultation as it bids to cut £1.76m from its libraries budget.

The proposals outline alternatives of cutting opening hours or shutting 10 buildings.

Those facing closure include Elson, in Gosport, Lee-on-the-Solent, Emsworth, and Horndean.

Executive member for recreation and heritage Councillor Sean Woodward said: ‘Thank you to everyone who has so far taken the time to take part in the consultation.

‘There’s still time to have your say, so if you have not already done so, please take a few minutes to complete the consultation on our website.

‘This has been a robust process, encouraging views from the widest possible range of people – as seen from the strong public response to the consultation.’

The county council is looking to save £80m by April 2021. Its consultation closes on Wednesday, March 18.

A decision will then be taken in summer.

See hants.gov.uk/library-consultation