GWYNEDD Council has been branded a “bunch of philistines” by a livid resident following the closure of a much-loved library.

Irate Harlech inhabitant David Price contacted the Cambrian News to make a scathing attack, following the local authority’s decision to permanently close the town’s community facility.

He described it as a “sickening blow” that the community had lost the “lovely, cosy, little library”.

“Well done Gwynedd Council,” Mr Price said. “Of the 17 general libraries in your large area, you have now closed eight. Only nine more to go and your county will be a cultural, social and education wilderness for readers.

“Don’t you realise the damaging effects of this closing measure? You are striking at the heart and soul of our community. You are ripping out its heart in ancient Inca style.”

Harlech is one of four libraries axed following the Challenge Gwynedd consultation last year.

The closures are expected to save approximately £170,000 – with Penrhyndeudraeth, Llanberis and Deiniolen also losing their facilities.

Meanwhile, buildings in Bethesda, Penygroes, Nefyn and Criccieth have escaped the axe but have become “community-led” libraries to cut costs.

Mr Price said he was worried for the future of his town.

“Harlech has lost two banks; the Post Office is now in the corner of a shop; boarded-up shops litter the High Street; we have a closed historic college and two large car parks with exorbitant parking fees which chase away visitors - need I go on?

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