Mobile libraries and road maintenance will not face the chop but school crossing patrols will be reduced under plans to save cash.

The county’s mobile library service, which has been described as a ‘lifeline’ for many people, was threatened with closure under cost cutting plans.

Plans to cut road maintenance, for repairs such as potholes, will also not be recommended as part of Cambridgeshire County Council’s budget savings.

Barbara Ashwood, Lib Dem county councillor, who represents Trumpington, said: “Mobile libraries are a lifeline to many people in rural areas and are sometimes the only contact they have with councils.

“They are more than just a book lending service, as they keep them connected to the wider community.”

Councillor Amanda Taylor, Lib Dem spokesman, said of the importance of road maintenance: “Potholes and cracked pavements are among the most frequent complaints that councillors receive.

“They make life so difficult for people trying to get about, whether by car, on foot or on a bike.

“Poor surfaces are particularly dangerous for older people, sometimes resulting in broken bones and hospitalisation.

“Cutting this budget would have been not only a false economy but a slap in the face for the people of Cambridgeshire.

“I’m pleased that the committee saw sense and decided to maintain funding for this core service.”

But the Lib Dems say they are disappointed that Conservative councillors voted to cut school crossing patrols, to proceed with the unpopular night-time lights switch-off and to cut grants to agencies such as the CAB.

The decision to no longer recommend cutting the library service or road maintenance was taken by members of the county council’s highways and community infrastructure committee