CRICKLADE'S children's centre will close by July.

Wiltshire councillors yesterday voted to axe the centre as part of plans to shut six children's centres across the county. The council says the changes could save £250,000.

While the council has claimed that the children's centre services could be provided elsewhere, like libraries, the plans have not been universally popular.

Concerns over the closure of the Cricklade centre were raised at this morning's cabinet meeting by town councillor Bob Jones. The town library, identified as an alternative location for services provided by the children's centre, was described as unsuitable for baby groups.

Coun Jones said: “The library is on the first floor above a council building. It is not suitable for children to be going up and down the stairs, it is not suitable for music sessions or play sessions.”

Wiltshire Council says it will now look into other options for the town when the centre closes.

Coun Laura Mayes, cabinet member for children at Wiltshire Council, said: “Children’s centres are only one way of many that we reach families. We have the early health family key worker, we have the early help and support hub who will signpost ways to help. That is what we are doing through the Families and Children Transformation programme.”

Royal Wootton Bassett's children's centre is not one of the six in the firing line.

The six centres to close are Westbury, Longfield, Trowbridge, Mere, Pewsey, Salisbury City and Cricklade.

Westbury's closure will be delayed until the Autumn.