Library staff in Wiltshire don’t want their £35,000 new uniforms due to be introduced by the new Wiltshire Council, according to a union poll.

Last week it was revealed the new uniforms, to be given to 300 employees at libraries and heritage centres in the county, were not ready in time for the launch of the unitary authority on April 1.

Now Wiltshire’s branch of Unison has released figures revealing how 47 out of 61 library and heritage staff surveyed did not want to wear a uniform. Staff blasted the cost of the uniforms, calling the £35,000 price tag “indecent” in a time of recession and would be asked to defend a decision they themselves were “very unhappy” about.

Mary McGuire, of Unison, said: “I can understand the new council wanting to mark the change but if it’s against the wishes of its employees then it’s not a good move.”

A Wiltshire Council spokesman responded: “This survey took place in the early stages of us investigating the use of uniforms and we have since met with them to discuss the concerns raised.

“An extensive consultation process has taken place with staff to make sure the new uniform is attractive and practical to fit all their needs.”