CAMPAIGNERS in Rhoose will take their bid to save their local library from closure to the High Court this week.

The decision to close Rhoose library, unless volunteers came forward to run it themselves, was made earlier this year as part of a cost saving measure by the Vale of Glamorgan. Similar action was also taken with libraries in Wenvoe, St Athan, Sully and Dinas Powys.

During the same shake-up Barry library, Penarth, Cowbridge and Llantwit Major all saw opening hours and staff numbers reduced.

The Save Rhoose Library campaign group have instructed one of Wales’ leading experts in Administrative and Public law, Michael Imperato of Watkins and Gunn Solicitors to help secure legal aid and pursue a judicial review.

The basis of their complaint is a claim that the council's consultation was "flawed" and unlawful.

Michael Imperato has acted for individuals and campaign groups in a number of high profile judicial review cases against national and local government in Wales over the last few years.

Last year, he worked with the Rhydyfelin Library Support Group where Rhondda Cynon Taff Council made a u-turn decision to reopen the library prior to court action.

Alongside Mr Imperato, the library campaign group has secured the services of Rhodri Williams QC and Christian Howells both of 30 Park Place Chambers Cardiff.

Karen Heenan-Davies, a member of the campaign group, said: “We didn’t set out to pursue Vale of Glamorgan Council in the courts but we felt we had no alternative.

"We're determined to hold the council to account for its actions."

Jennifer Hill, Director of Learning and Skills at the Vale of Glamorgan Council said: “The Vale of Glamorgan Council has thoroughly considered all options available to it in providing quality library services to residents and communities.  To this end, the Council conducted a fully open and accessible consultation on our library strategy.  

“The Council then invited expressions of interest from groups interested in taking over the running of five libraries in the Vale. One group has since expressed interest in running Rhoose library and has put forward a business plan.  The Council is currently considering this plan, and only once it has been reviewed will we take a decision on the future of the library service in Rhoose. 

“The claim that the Vale of Glamorgan Council has taken a decision to close the library is premature, as no such decision has yet been taken.”