Get all your news in one place.
100’s of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
Manchester Evening News
Manchester Evening News
National
Thomas Molloy

Library opening hours in Bolton could be slashed in bid to save £430k

Library opening hours in Bolton could be slashed as a cost-cutting measure, to prevent closures.

There are currently 10 libraries operated by Bolton council council but the libraries and museums service must find savings of £430,000.

The main suggestion being recommended by the council is to reduce opening hours, in order to bring down staffing costs and utility bills.

Other proposals are to close the history centre on Sundays, and reduce support for neighbourhood collection sites.

A public consultation has launched today (June 7) for anyone who lives, works or studies in the borough.

Coun Hilary Fairclough, the Town Hall's lead on libraries and museums, said that 'no final decision' has yet been made.

“We know how valuable libraries are to local communities and the council is committed to proving an excellent Libraries and Museums Service," she said.

“We are not closing any of our facilities, but we are proposing to reduce the opening hours to keep down costs.

“This is not something we do lightly, and we welcome your opinions on the proposal.

“No final decision will be taken until we have heard from people who use the service, and all responses will be taken into account.”

If you live, work, or study in Bolton, you can have your say on the proposals on the Bolton Council website.

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100’s of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
One subscription that gives you access to news from hundreds of sites
Already a member? Sign in here
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.