Brent Council library closures campaign appeal granted

Campaigners who are trying to save six libraries in north-west London have been told they can appeal against a ruling that the closures are legal.

On Thursday the High Court said Brent Council could go ahead with its plans to shut the buildings to save money.

A judge rejected users' claims that the authority failed to properly assess the impact of shutting the facilities.

But the Court of Appeal has now granted protesters leave to appeal and is to hear arguments for a stay of execution.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-london-15359598

In Oxfordshire, a strong campaign did lead to a stay of execution for 20 libraries - no one knows what will happen in the end, however.

http://www.guardian.co.uk/culture/culture-cuts-blog/2011/feb/21/arts-funding-arts-policy

ever since the London Borough of Brent replaced the old Wembley Borough Council. That's regardless of who's in control - they're as bad as each other.

Whilst I have no occasion to use a library these days I do regard them as being precious.

...I have used them extensively in the past. And the times I have used them most have been the times when I have been most in need.

For instance, with so much recruitment being done online these days it's an essential service for many unemployed who use library internet facilities to find work.

A judge has fast-tracked an urgent hearing of an appeal against Brent council's closure of six libraries.

Lord Justice Elias granted an appeal against a ruling made last week in the high court that Brent council's decision was lawful. He ordered that attempts should be made for it to be heard before the court of appeal on two days early next month.

Brent council has agreed, in the meantime, to take no irrevocable steps to prevent the libraries reopening in the event of the appeal being won.

Campaigners have mounted vigils outside two of the threatened libraries, Preston Road, which has already been boarded up by the council, and Kensal Rise, to ensure they are not emptied of books or computers while the legal dispute continues.

http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/2011/oct/19/brent-council-library-closures-appeal