Newport Library and First Point saved from closure

A decision has been taken by Telford & Wrekin Council’s senior cabinet members to save Newport’s First Point & Library Service - following an extensive public consultation on budget savings proposals.

The council has announced there will be a reduction in the savings needed at Newport Library, which will allow the Council to continue to run a First Point service alongside a self service library facility.

Saving the First Point Service and Library, which will be subject to a review of operational arrangements, will mean the council has halved the level of savings it had originally planned to deliver after listening to the views of local residents.

The council is continuing to hold talks with a number of Town and Parish Councils including Newport Town Council to explore whether it can work together to reduce the impact of other savings across a range of services.

Councillor Liz Clare, Telford & Wrekin Council’s Cabinet Member for Leisure & Culture, said: “We know that the First Point Service is an extremely valued community resource in Newport and, if it were to close, Newport residents would have to travel further than most to access council services.

“We have listened to what the community have told us and have changed our plans as a result.”

Councillor Shaun Davies, Telford & Wrekin Council’s cabinet member for Business, Neighbourhood & Customer Services, said: “We are doing all we can to protect our frontline services.

“However, our financial position is such that we do need the community and Town and Parish Councils to help us out. I hope to continue my discussions with Newport Town Council to see if we can work together to help limit the impact of other savings.”

Councillor Lee Carter Telford & Wrekin’s Cabinet Member for Finance & Service Delivery, said “We would obviously prefer not to be in a position where we have to cut or close anything but the government has left us with little choice.

“We are dealing with a £30m cut to our grant. However I am delighted that we have been able to make these changes which means we can retain the Library and First Point Service in Newport.”