Residents are urged to have their say on the future of libraries and community centres before funding is cut from the vital facilities.

The latest public engagement on public facilities starts next week with views to be used to inform a report for cabinet later this year.

As previously reported earlier in the year, possible mergers, relocations and community asset transfers are on the cards for community centres with library options including relying on volunteers, potential relocation and co-location of libraries and cutting opening hours.

Council chiefs say they want residents to help co-design the emerging plan to develop solutions, and with library provision a statutory responsibility of local authorities, North Ayrshire Council are legally obliged to consult on any changes to services.

The drop-in sessions being held in the Irvine and Kilwinning area get underway next week and will run between 1pm and 4pm then again between 6pm and 8pm starting in Kilwinning Library on Wednesday, September 11, Irvine’s Volunteer Rooms on Monday, September 16 and Dreghorn Library Wednesday, September 25.

The sessions will concentrate on the future delivery of libraries, halls and community centres and how these services can best be delivered in years to come.

Following consultation with local communities held earlier this summer, draft plans have now been drawn up and people are invited to get actively involved by making their voices heard.

Cabinet Member for Communities, Councillor Louise McPhater, said: “Residents will be well aware of the financial challenges faced by councils across Scotland – we have to find viable, economic solutions which allow us to continue to deliver the services people want.

“Empowering communities is at the heart of what we are aiming to achieve – we want residents to play a central role in helping to shape the future of our libraries, halls and community centres and would encourage them to come along and make sure their views are known.”