Youth club closures opposed
Following a successful campaign against the raising of Council Tax in Chesterfield, the Liberal Democrats have now turned our sights on the Conservative run County Council which, it is claimed, will save £800,000 by closing down every Youth Club it runs including the Peter Webster Centre and Hasland Youth Centre in Chesterfield.
Local Liberal Democrat campaigners County Cllr, Tony Rogers and Sonia Allen say: "This is a ridiculously short sighted idea. At a time of economic recession and rising youth unemployment it is more important than ever that the Council provides such Youth Services - not close them down. As a local resident", Sonia continues, "I know the value of the Peter Webster Centre. My son and his friends made great use of it when they were teenagers. It is far too valuable to close down."
The Police have said in response to the 'consultation' by the Council that "...there was a risk that a decrease in activities for young people could lead to an increase in anti-social behaviour."
They point to reductions of up to 75% in calls about anti-social behaviour where youth activities are provided. Liberal Democrats are asking anyone opposed to the closure to sign our petition or contact Derbyshire County Council voicing their views before the end of the consultation period on March 18th.