BRADFORD Council has bowed to public pressure and has just announced that a consultation meeting about the future of Shipley libraries will now take place in Baildon.

On Monday, the Telegraph & Argus reported how the decision to discuss possible closure of Baildon, Burley, Menston and Silsden at a meeting in Keighley library tomorrow had been branded "insulting" and "barmy" by leading opponents.

They argued it was unfair to expect people to travel so far for a one-hour meeting or attend an earlier drop-in session.

But now Bradford's education and culture portfolio holder Councillor Susan Hinchcliffe has said: "The whole point of consultation is to listen to what people have to say.

"So that's what I'm doing.

"I've not received any direct requests from Councillors in Baildon and Wharfedale to hold an additional event but from reading the T&A and from Cllr Dale Smith's comments at Full Council yesterday I'm happy to add an additional event in Baildon.

"I'm glad people are passionate about libraries and can understand why they want to hear more. "

"Just as a reminder, if you can't make one of the events, 5000 consultation forms are being distributed to every library in the district so please complete one and let us have your views."

Baildon Councillor Debbie Davies responded: "I am absolutely delighted with the Council's U-turn on this matter.

"I've been pushing for this and have had lots of emails to and from with council officers for weeks.

"I'm somewhat surprised Councillor Hinchcliffe is unaware of that.

"Lots of people told me how travelling to Keighley was most unsatisfactory and they will be pleased by this change of heart."

The drop-in session for these libraries in Shipley constituency – Baildon, Burley and Menston - will be on Tuesday, February 2, in Ian Clough Hall, Hallcliffe, Baildon from 4.30 to 6 pm. This will be followed by a meeting from 6 to 7 pm.

The Keighley drop-in session and meeting will still go ahead on Thursday, January 21, at those same times.

Although the final decision on this proposal will not be made until Full Council on Thursday, February 25, if you are interested in finding out more about becoming a volunteer or volunteer co-ordinator please contact Mandy Webb at mandy.webb@bradford.gov.uk to register your interest or to gather more information If you require more information about the initial budget proposal please contact jackie.kitwood@bradford.gov.uk