Children's centres closure could face legal action

The campaign group is considering a judicial review of the decision

A west London council could be taken to court over plans to close 10 of its 25 children's centres.

Ealing Council said despite increased demand for statutory children's services, "not all families who could benefit" are using the facilities.

But Claire Welsby, a campaigner for Save Ealing's Children Centre's, said it is considering a judicial review of the plan.

And opposition councillors claimed Ealing's decision was "deeply flawed".

Ms Welsby said: "Obviously there is a big financial implication about that [seeking a judicial review], and we need to seek advice.

"There are lots of things we would look at and we would focus on the process.

"But also, we will continue to hold them to account, through freedom of information requests, continuing to go to public meetings, and continuing to hold protests."

An Ealing Council spokesperson said the current set up "is not working".

The Labour-run council said it aims to "design a service more tailored to our families' needs and move services into the community to better reach those who may need our help, while retaining the largest number of children's centres in London".

The leader of the opposition on Ealing Council, Lib Dem councillor Gary Malcolm, said this is "another example of Ealing Labour holding a consultation, ignoring the results and then axing vital services".

He added: "The closures will result in worse outcomes for the vulnerable children and families across the borough and reduced accessibility.

"They are closing the children's centres before they have thought about what they will have in place."