BROMBOROUGH Library has been thrown a lifeline by its new Labour councillor Sue Percy. 

Nine libraries, a leisure centre and two golf courses were initially under threat of closure after Wirral Council voted to cut £20m from its budget.

However, local groups can bid to take over the facilities as part of a community asset transfer scheme.

Cllr Percy proposed an amendment at Wirral’s Tourism, Communities, Culture & Leisure Committee this week, asking that the community be given more time to save its library. 

Bromborough and New Ferry libraries were the only two ‘at risk’ sites that had no-one bids to save them by transferring them into community assets. But, as Cllr Percy explained, if the community could be given more time, then a proposal could be put together.

She said: “From speaking to residents and seeing the brilliant work done by the Friends of Bromborough Library, it was clear that more time was needed. I requested officers reopen the community asset transfer window to let interested groups get their bid in.

“Together with the council leader, Cllr Janette Williamson, I have offered to work with residents to put together a robust bid. I am confident that we can keep this cherished community hub open, and in the hands of the people who use it most.”

Mo Miller, the chair of Friends of Bromborough Library, said: “The Friends of Bromborough Library are delighted that the council listened to and understood the vision of a vibrant civic centre and library in Bromborough. We now feel that this vision is possible and we will do all we can to work with other community partners to try to achieve it.”