Heather Kidd, Shropshire Councillor for Chirbury and Worthen, has strongly criticised the level of service provided by the Council’s Library Vans after a six week break in the Stiperstones and Shelve areas.
Heather said “I’ve had a large number of complaints from predominantly older residents who highly value this service.
“It seems that the van failed to arrive in Bent Lawnt, Shelve and Stiperstones and left people waiting 6 weeks to change their books.
Last week Heather Kidd met Council officers to discuss these problems.” It has been suggested to me that damage has been caused to the vehicle because the routes are unsuitable! The Library van has been travelling these routes for years. What’s so different now?” Heather continued. “Personally I think the age of the vehicle is the main problem and then getting the parts takes a while.”
“In very rural areas like ours this service is highly appreciated and for many elderly people provides a key social contact as well. It is a great pity that this service has not incorporated other services from the Council to help make it pay.
“I am glad that the van is back on the road now but I have urged Council officers to keep a close eye on this much loved service and let me know as soon as there is a problem. Surely it would be possible to use another van when there are repeated problems?”.