Tories should commit on library, says Nancy

Nancy Platts, Labour's next candidate for Brighton Pavilion MP, has called on Tory councillors to extend the opening hours of Brighton and Hove's award-winning Jubilee Library.

Residents say the popular library should be open longer

Nancy made the call after the Tory-controlled council refused to commit to a start date for when the library will open on Sundays.

"The lukewarm response from the Tory-controlled council will be disappointing to residents who have shown overwhelming support for Labour's policy of longer library opening hours," she said.

"The Tories should get on with Sunday opening of Jubilee Library immediately as the first step in a review of demand across the whole of the city."

Nancy Platts is conducting a survey showing how library visitors in Brighton are missing out, because the Jubilee Library is open only 48 hours a week.

Labour has also been collecting signatures for a citywide petition. The petition, along with the full results of its national survey of library opening hours, will be presented to councillors in November.

"My survey has already found that many cities have central libraries that are open up to 25 per cent longer. Birmingham's library is open for a total of 63 hours a week, with Manchester, Leeds and Bradford not far behind.

"I will be working with Labour colleagues on the city council to pressure the Tories into at least living up to their election promise."

Residents wishing to give their views can also take part in our online poll at nancyplatts.com or email their views to yoursay@nancyplatts.com.