Newport Library being 'discriminated against', says MP Mark Pritchard
Newport has been "discriminated against" after it was announced its library could be axed due to council cuts, Wrekin MP Mark Pritchard said.
He has vowed to help with the fight to save Newport Library following Telford & Wrekin Council's 2016 budget plans.
This comes after the town rallied together to protest against the possible closure last Wednesday. About 100 people gathered outside the library on the High Street.
The MP, who fought to save the library while he was a parliamentary candidate, has held an emergency meeting with bosses at the borough council.
Mr Pritchard also campaigned in support of the library before the election in 2005.
He also said he will fight the closure of other libraries in his constituency, including ones in Donnington and Hadley.
At the meeting on Friday, Mr Pritchard said he wants to work with the council but not on a "slash and burn approach".
He said: "I have campaigned to save Newport Library before and I shall do so again. The Labour ruling group have always discriminated against Newport.
"I am happy to work collaboratively with the council for the common good but not on a slash and burn approach to local services.
"This MP stands firm in the fight for library services."
The Labour-run council announced this month it needs to make £30 million worth of savings in the next two years. To do this the council has put forward plans, which could see Newport's library, outdoor market and two children play areas axed.
A consultation is currently taking place and
will run until February 7. People can give feedback by completing an online survey at www.telford.gov.uk/budget
