MORE than 12,000 people have taken part in Essex County Council’s online consultation on the future of libraries, the Gazette can reveal.

Campaigners are trying to persuade the county council to ditch plans to close a number of libraries including those in Prettygate, West Mersea, Manningtree, Brightlingsea, Stanway, Tiptree, Walton, West Clacton and Wivenhoe.

A library raid was held at Wivenhoe Library, where residents took out as many books as possible to show how valued the library is, and another is being planned for Prettygate Libraryat 10am tomorrow.

The Gazette asked the county council how many people had taken part in the online consultation which closes next month.

A county council spokesperson said: “More than 12,000 people have completed the consultation so far, demonstrating just how passionate people are about the service.

“It’s really important our residents are a part of the conversation around the future of the library service and we’re pleased so many people have taken the time to share their views.

“We need communities to continue to tell us what they think of our proposals before the deadline on February 20, including their own ideas and if there is any other evidence they think we should take into account.

“The consultation is easy to take part in. It can be carried out online, or in the library where staff can help people complete it.

“Residents can also phone 0345 603 7639 and a member of our customer team will assist with completing it for them.”

A total of 12,070 online survey responses have been completed to date. In addition, 360 hard copies have been submitted.

Colchester’s MP, Will Quince, has written to his Conservative counterpart David Finch, leader at Essex County Council, about his concerns over the closure of Prettygate library.

He said: “I fully appreciate the council’s ongoing drive to ensure value for money for the taxpayer through greater efficiency in local government finances. I also understand the financial pressures.

“However, I have significant concerns the closure of Prettygate Library would have a detrimental impact upon the community.

“Prettygate Library serves not just Prettygate, but also Lexden and Shrub End, and is regarded as a community asset by residents of each.

“I would ask other options be explored as there is no central community facility in Prettygate, nor is there a coffee shop or natural meeting place.

“I have no doubt a coffee shop alongside the library would prove very popular.”

In addition to the responses to the consultation, more than 2,500 people have signed the online petition to save Prettygate Library, while 400 have signed the Brightlingsea petition.