The field linking Picktree Lodge and Caxton Way has had additional drainage installed to prevent the footpath’s from flooding. I’ve facilitated this happening after residents raised concerns about the issue. The footpath coming from between 5 and 10 Caxton Way has had pipes installed next to the footpath. This should drain water away rather than […]

Before reading this please remember that this is a very expensive proposal, only an idea, and there are many difficult obstacles to overcome to make this happen. If it happens at all. There is an idea to reopen the former railway line connecting Chester-le-Street and Consett. Which would then run to Newcastle along the second […]

I’ve funded the repair of this access point onto the Sustrans cycle track out of my Neighbourhood Budget. The steps by Low Flatts field have been in a poor condition for many years. Thanks to Sustrans who managed this project, bidding for the funding and organising the work. They are an organisation that is mainly […]

Durham County Council have put forward a plan to reopen the DLI museum. The package will provide funding to refurbish the museum and provide it with a wider offering to the County. The aim is to make it an even better visitor attraction than what it was previously. One of the three floors of the […]

Every County Councillor are being given an additional one off £10,000 to spend on their community. For this year I have total available spend of £29,400. I welcome suggestions on how I can best use this funding to improve the lives of those living in the electoral area I represent. Only have 2 years to […]

Since moving out of lock down, Action Area Partnerships have had the way they allocate funding reviewed. The community set funding priorities have been removed so that the only thing they can focus on is Covid recovery related projects. I’ve been raising concerns that the communities AAP’s represent now have next to no say on […]

An ongoing problem of members of the Gypsy, Traveller, and Roma community staying overnight on the field opposite the BP garage occurred again during the lockdown. Many members of the community enjoy walking their dogs and using the field for exercise but this is spoiled by the rubbish and broken glass left behind. Despite previous […]

Durham County Council has worked to maintain its statutory functions during this pandemic, but there is an added financial cost to all of this. There have been approximately £25 million increase in expenses, for example in having to buy excess personal protection equipment, additional costs in maintaining refuse collections while being socially distant (needing more […]

Labour have cut a key welfare benefit from £1,000 to £500, on the basis that too much of the funding is being used. We’ve called for this decision to be reversed and the additional funding to be found. Especially considering the current crisis we’re currently in concerning Covid. It is shameful that a benefit the […]

Due to the difficulties during the lockdown, the Council have suspended garden waste collections. Staff sickness and their need to self-isolate has meant that general waste and recycling collections are being prioritised. The missed collections are to be added on at the end of the year. Following requests from residents, I’ve requested that the additional […]