‘It’s down to us to fight for it’ (From Bucks Free Press)

‘It’s down to us to fight for it’

4:38pm Thursday 15th December 2005 in

• Skip social links
• Print
• Email
•  

RESIDENTS have gathered nearly 2,000 signatures from angry neighbours opposed to the Micklefield Library closure plans.

The library in Micklefield Road, High Wycombe, has been shortlisted by Buckinghamshire County Council, as one of eight libraries in the county possibly facing closure.

Midweek reporter Sitala Peek joined campaign chairman Dave Cannings, and a team of volunteers on Sunday to convince shopkeepers and residents in Micklefield Road to oppose plans.

They collected 300 signatures, bringing the total to 1,760 registered objections.

Keith Hill, 44, of Carver Hill, High Wycombe said: "The community needs its own library and it's down to us to fight for it. It is a deprived area and it's total madness taking this away when they are supposed to be supporting higher literacy levels in schools."

Mr Hill, who has a petition in his shop, displayed a Midweek "Don't Take the Mick" poster in his window.

The owner of of Keith Hill Butchers in Micklefield Road, added: "I have two kids myself and I want to encourage them to read."

Eileen Scarbrau, of Windrush Drive and St Hugh's Avenue Residents' Association, said: "By 2008 there should be 290 tenants here and lots of families whose children may want it to do their homework in after school or use the internet, what will they do?"

Cllr Julia Wassell said once they hit 2,000 signaturesthe council "can't ignore us".

Former Dr Who Colin Baker is also against the plan to replace the library with a twice weekly mobile service.