A DEMONSTRATION over plans to move a key slice of Bexley’s history to Bromley helped gain more than 1,000 signatures opposing the move.

Members of Bexley Archaeological Group and other concerned residents are against a Bexley Council proposal to move the Bexley Local Studies and Archive Centre from Central Library in Bexleyheath.

The centre would be transferred to Bromley Central Library from its current Townley Road base if the plans go ahead.

Protesters gathered outside Bexleyheath Clocktower on Saturday to voice their disapproval at what is one of 23 proposals aimed at addressing a £10 million funding gap faced by the council next year.

A petition was signed by 1,043 people on the day while an online petition has 667 signatures.

Bexley Historical Society secretary Penny Duggan said: "Many people had heard about our campaign from the publicity already generated but there were plenty of others who were shocked to learn about Bexley Council's proposal and felt that our heritage should be protected."

A public consultation on the plans runs at bexley.gov.uk until December 18.