Kirklees council customer service staff have voted for strike action

Speaking in February, then-deputy council leader Paul Davies said the closure plans were set against “a world of difficult local finances”.

A council spokesman said that following the pandemic “we have seen a continued change in the way people choose to access services”.

They said the council wanted to make it “easier for people” to access advice and information online.

“The new offering will provide access to support via online or phone support from 10 of our library locations.”

The spokesman added: “The council is going through the necessary HR processes in consultation with unions and affected staff with the intention of minimizing the impact on employees where possible by managing vacancies and supporting staff to move to other board roles.

“We are pleased to report that many affected employees have already found alternative roles on the board.”