A PARISH in the Dengie has officially opened its new library but it is still threatened with closure.

Southminster Library is now located in the Parish Room in Queenborough Road.

It follows the move from the old police station which had seen many temporary closures in recent years due to heating problems.

A parish council spokesman said: “We were approached by Essex County Council early in 2018 with a view to the relocation.

“Councillor John Anderson together with the clerk Joanna Jeffery and Councillor Gordon Harrold held many talks with Essex County Council and were pleased to secure the relocation for the foreseeable future.

“The parish council felt that the library is a community asset for many and was an invaluable asset that should not be lost.

“We would encourage all residents to use this treasured facility or lose it.”

During the process, County Hall revealed it was looking at closing a raft of smaller libraries such as Southminster.

More than 20 libraries across the county could be closed by Essex County Council. Bosses say they are not being used enough and there are other ways to provide services.

However, some could be saved if they are run by the community.

Public consultation is ongoing, and residents are urged to participate.

To get involved visit essex.gov.uk/libraries-consultation.