THREE Bournemouth day centres for people with learning disabilities are to close, despite protests from users.

Around 20 activists from Bournemouth People First descended on the Town Hall yesterday in the hope of blocking proposals to replace traditional day centres with more “community-based” activities.

They said they were angry that they hadn’t been consulted sooner over closing Malvern, Horizons and Darracott day centres, and expressed worries for people in residential homes.

Addressing the council cabinet, Amanda Frost said: “People need a break away from where they live and carers need a break.

“In the past, a lot of people were stuck at home everyday in front of the TV. We fear this will happen again.

“People’s health and wellbeing will suffer and people will be socially isolated.”

The new ‘Big Society’ style set-up will give people greater flexibility, cabinet member for health and social services Councillor Lynda Price said.

Cllr Price said: “People will be able to get up and decide whether they want to get up and go for a walk in the country, or go on a shopping trip.

“We are all caring people in Bournemouth and we want to support our vulnerable people.”

People with learning disabilities will now be consulted on how they would like to use their social allocation.

The cabinet will get an update on the Learning Disabilities Day Review next month.