ALTON library has lost its battle to become the 'key' library in East Hampshire, despite being in the largest town in the district and one which can expect to see significant growth over the next 20 years.

The downgrading to 'large library', behind Petersfield which has been awarded key status, was approved by Hampshire County Council's executive member for culture and recreation, Keith Chapman, at his decision day on January 20.

Following a three-month public consultation, which solicited more than 5,500 responses from customers, public, staff and local councils, the decision was taken to cut the opening hours of 37 of the county's 53 libraries.

For full story, see this week's Alton Herald.