THE Leigh community is gearing up a two-pronged attack to save its library.


The town council has set up a campaign group to pitch its case to Southend Council, while a residents’ group “Save Leigh Library” has been formed.


The council announced last month how five branch libraries would close in a bid to save £338,000, with Grade II listed Leigh Library in a straight fight with Kent Elms as to which service stays.


A year-long review has been recommended with Central library, in Victoria Avenue, closing in favour of the new £27m Southend Forum Library, due to open in September.


It is planned for the new super library to be served by a two “hub” libraries, one in the east and one in the west – meaning either Kent Elms or Leigh, in Broadway West, will have to go.


Ian Sanders, from Save Leigh Library, said: “It would be tragic for the library to close.


“We understand that cuts have to be made, but £300,000 just seems like a drop in the ocean compared to what Southend has to save in total.


“The library offers a fantastic serve for both children and adults and people rely on the library to search for jobs in these tough times, plus it is the busiest branch library.