THERE will have to be a formal review of the decision by Shropshire Council to move the library in Church Stretton from the town centre to the secondary school.

The opposition Liberal Democrat group members will have the decision looked at by a special scrutiny committee.

Three Lib Dem Councillors have formally moved for a review of Shropshire Council's decision to press ahead with the controversial move.

"Its patently obvious that removing the library from the town centre would be a disaster for Church Stretton,” said Roger Evans, leader of the Liberal Democrat group.

“Moving it half a mile to the school in a place with such a significant elderly population is simply dreadful.

"There are a number of issues around safety for young people and for older library users which have not been thought through.

"We have worked closely with the Library Support Group to make this submission.

"The detailed study, that they have made, details the impact of this move will have on the community both socially and economically.

"It is vital the Shropshire review its decision before lasting harm is done."

Councillors Roger Evans, Heather Kidd, and Charlotte Barnes, who represents Bishop's Castle, have now formally requested a 'call in' for review of the cabinet’s decision.

Shropshire Council says that the move will involve the creation of a community hub that will play a key role in providing information and advice.

It says that the decision will enable the best quality library service to be provided consistent with the financial pressure being faced by the council.

Its report into the issue says that moving the facility to the school will be the most effective use of resources.

It adds that with cuts having to be made priorities have to be determined.

"The challenging demographics of Shropshire’s population mean that vital services such as looking after elderly people and vulnerable children have to be prioritised," said a council statement.

"Changes to all local and strategic services are unavoidable."