People not premises

Yesterday was just an ordinary day but today the view is rather different (not just because I'm facing the other way!)

It takes a lot to rile the good people of Dorchester, but the new office block for West Dorset District Council and library for which planning permission was given recently has got everyone going.

Dorchester turned out in force this morning to protest against the unnecesary and very expensive new buildings which will necessitate the closure of 20 rural libraries. If money were no object no-one would mind the council having a new office block, or the town library having an upgrade, but there's been no consultation and the decision has been taken by a handful of councillors, none of whom represent the town. The idea wasn't even on the table last time we had local elections in 2007 and a recent poll by the town council (which has a different political make-up) found that 93% of Dorchester residents are opposed to it. A cheaper option is available on the brewery site but West Dorset District Council (WDDC) have done a deal with the developer over this site.

People feel that taxpayers' money should be used to benefit everyone in the district, inlcuding the folks in the villages who rely on the local libraries, rather than an expensive scheme which will be of more benefit to the developers than to people.

The leader of the District Council is called Gould, so 'Gouldafi out' placards were prominent today.

Other protest pictures:

Who's the tank aimed at?
Wasteful Demanding Deceitful CONservatives
High St Dorchester
New Town Hall? No thanks