THERE was standing room only last night as Wirral council leaders came face-to-face with the public in West Kirby over proposals for savage cuts in leisure and cultural services.

Around 800 people packed into the Concourse building to make their views known.

The meeting frequently became rowdy as council leader Steve Foulkes explained why the council wanted to close a number of libraries, leisure centres and community centres.

He said the proposals would save the authority £3.7m and keep council tax bills down.

But speaker after speaker from the floor voiced their opposition to the plans.

A number of speakers also spoke about what effect the planned closure of a number of individual libraries would have. Others said the withdrawal of sporting facilities, such as those provided at Woodchurch Leisure Centre, would lead to an increase in childhood obesity and anti-social behaviour.

Laurie Johnson, who is chairman of Woodchurch swimming club, told council leaders: “If all councillors operated like you’re doing, we wouldn’t have a GB Olympic team.”

THE final “special area forum conference” takes place tonight at the Floral Pavilion in New Brighton, starting at 7pm.