News

PUBLIC services in Darfield are facing the chop as part of the council's budget cuts.

At a public meeting in the village on Wednesday, Cllr Brian Key said the council was beginning a consultation on the closure of the library and youth centre.

It comes two-and-a-half years after a protest was held outside the library and a petition handed to the Barnsley East MP Michael Dugher when it was first considered for closure along with all other district libraries in the borough.

Cllr Key told the meeting the council was holding another consultation on the use and viability of libraries across Barnsley - in an attempt to further trim the budget. 

He said a survey would be issued to households in the area for a 12-week consultation period and a meeting would be organised at the library to discuss the issue.

"We need as much public support as possible if we're to keep the library open,' he said.

"To me, it's essential that we maintain a library and the services it provides, but we're always going to be under pressure because it's not a service the council is required to provide by law."

Despite assurances it would remain on the former Foulstone site, Darfield Youth Centre may also close and a consultation process is taking place regarding its demolition.