Conservatives will not back Moray Council library closure plan
This story reports the updated position of Moray Council’s Conservative councillors, after a withdrawn administration group press release which stated library closure plans were “no longer on the table”.
We reported the retraction yesterday, along with a party spokesperson’s apology over “any confusion that has been created”.
Administration councillors will not vote in favour of shutting seven Moray libraries, they have confirmed.
Councillors said the decision was made in the face of "overwhelming" public opposition to the plans revealed by a consultation.
Moray Council leader Kathleen Robertson and deputy leader Donald Gatt said the administration group plans to look at “alternative plans”, adding that the proposal was drawn up by council officers rather than elected members.
Campaigners shared their fury at the initial plans, which would have left just four area libraries left across the area.
Moray Council leader Kathleen Robertson said: "Given the overwhelming opposition to the council officers recommendations, the Moray Conservative administration confirm that we cannot support those recommendations.
"I'm incredibly grateful to the huge number of people across Moray who made their opposition to the plans from council officers known during the consultation.
"This was not something I ever wanted to do as council leader.
“I understand the importance of libraries to communities across Moray, but we had a duty to consult on what officers were proposing.
"We have listened to local people. Now there is an opportunity to bring forward alternative plans and work with our communities to deliver the library services that they want and meet their needs.
"The council group I lead is committed to supporting local services while also balancing our budget against a tough backdrop.”
More on this story to follow on The Northern Scot website.
