At a meeting of the Council held in Eastgate Village Hall on 5th August 2026
PRESENT:
Cllr M Brewin, Cllr J Shuttleworth, Cllr Mrs S Thompson, Cllr D Craig, Cllr Mrs S Smart,
Cllr Mrs D Sutcliff, Cllr Mrs D Wright, Cllr L Blackett, Cllr R Lawrie, Cllr P Turton,
Cllr Miss J Carrick – Chairman
Susan Anderson – Clerk
Also Present – Keiron Young Heritage 100 Project
One member of the public
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Apologies for Absence
Cllr E Buchanan, Cllr Mrs C Burdis
11227
To Receive Any Declarations of Interest from Members
None received
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Minutes of the meeting held on 1st July 2026
Minutes were moved as a true and correct record and were signed by the Chairman
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Matters Arising
1. Lime Trees – As usual the Lime Trees will be cut back in August prior to the shows
2. Camping around the Stone Bridge – More photos have been sent of people camping over the Stone Bridge. One of fishing club members caught someone fishing and camping, the fishing is private fishing. The notice that was put up has been taken down and is in the river. DCC have said that it is up to the Police to move the campers on. Resolved: Cllrs mentioned that the photographs should be passed onto the Police
3. Frosterley – Enforcement will go out to the land where the bricks have been delivered to. There is no access.
4. Flower beds – There has been a problem planting the flower beds due to rabbits eating the plants. The flower tubs in the front of the church have not been planted either. Cllr Shuttleworth mentioned that more money has been received from the Government. Next year the flowers will be 100% better. The three tier planters were going to be taken away on Stanhope Market Place but they have been managed to be kept. DCC may have some plants to go in that are sustainable. Cllr Mrs Wright and Cllr Miss Carrick would like to plant the tubs with pansies and winter bulbs then summer plants. Another suggestion would be to raise money like Rookhope do.
5. Frosterley Play park – Some new dog poo signage is to be put up and patrols will be on-going. Cllr Mrs Smart would like to know what size the signage will be and if it is large then she would like some for Eastgate Resolved: Clerk to contact DCC
6. Fire Cadets – Emails were sent to the Chief Fire Officer, Chair of Combined Fire Authority and MP. The Fire Cadet service could no longer be supported within the resources available to the Service. The Chief Fire Officers primary responsibility is to maintain emergency response capabilities and deliver statutory duties, difficult decisions across the organisation have been taken to protect the frontline across County Durham and Darlington. The MP will be happy to write to County Durham and Darlington Fire Authority to ask them to reconsider their decision and to ask if there is anything that would support in keeping the fire cadets running. He may be able to offer some assistance to them by advising on available funding. The reply from the MP is similar to the other replies. The decision regarding Fire Cadets is not a reflection of the value that is placed on the programme, but the financial reality facing the Service.
7. Removal of stone wall from Graham Street – An update has been provided that the owner of the land has been written to. We will be kept updated in due course.
8. Warship Week – The gentleman who contacted us regarding the Warship Kingston Amber Shield was really pleased with the information that we sent him that Cllr Blackett had. He was wondering if we had managed to get the shield back into Weardale from DCC. Resolved: Clerk to contact DCC
9. Town Hall, Stanhope – Weardale properties who are selling the Town Hall are going to contact the owner of the Town Hall. The concerns are that a slate has already fallen off the roof onto the pavement and some of the others do not look safe.
10. Bondisle Allotments – The Weardale Community Transport have been written to regarding the shredded covering on the polytunnels. This will be discussed at the next Board meeting.
11. Back Road from Stanhope to Westgate – The contractor is going to take a look and cut back what is necessary.
12. St Johns Chapel School Hedge – Last meeting I was asked to write to the school after complaints concerning the height of the school hedge that borders School Close. An email was sent off. Another complaint has been received.
13. B4RN – B4RN has now launched the community investment offer for the Wearhead to Brotherlee project. It has been open for a few weeks and progress has been slower than they had hoped for. Linda Jamieson would like to know if there any local funding opportunities that could support the project. This could include community funds, local businesses, charitable organisations, council grants or any other funding pots in our area. Linda also needs help contacting several landowners who they require wayleaves to connect the middle section of the dale. If any councillors know these individuals or could help them obtain contact details or make introductions she would be grateful.
14. Weardale Railway – Our report regarding the overgrown railway bank beside the public footpath will be inspected. The vegetation will be scheduled in line with the maintenance programme and safety priorities. The team have been asked to prioritise and the work should be done in the next 2-3 weeks.
15. Councillors .Gov.Uk emails – We only have a few councillors using the new email address. I will contact the company for help getting everyone up and running.
16. Burnhope Reservoir – Cllr Blackett mentioned that there is a memorial bench at the reservoir
17. Dales Centre footpath – The weeds still haven’t been pulled out by the Dales Centre wall
18. Allotments
Westgate Allotments
Last meeting a tenant asked for permission to keep some hens at Westgate. Following the inspection Cllr Miss Carrick and Cllr Lawrie agreed to the request.
One of the sheds has rubbish in it that was taken on by a new tenant. Resolved: It was agreed to leave it there for the time being
The end plot has some panes of glass that needs removing but needs wrapping up. This is not the tenant’s glass. Resolved: Clerk to ask S Makepeace to remove the glass
Ireshopeburn
The allotments at Ireshopeburn are good
Willard Grove
The couple asked permission to take the tree down that was burnt in the fire. Cllr Miss Carrick and Cllr Lawrie gave their permission to do this. The small tree will be cut up and burnt.
Two plots are overgrown. Resolved: Clerk to write
There are two small sheds that need tidying out and some of the rubbish removing. Resolved: Clerk to write to the tenant
There are some paving stones stacked on their sides on the track that need removing for safety concerns. Resolved: Councillors would like these removing. Clerk to write to the tenant
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Keiron Young – Heritage 100 Project
Cllr Miss Carrick welcomed Mr Young to the meeting who is creating circular walks to showcase County Durham. So far,he has done 24 out of 100. Mr Young has support from DCC and works with the public rights of way officers and the Wolsingham Wayfarers. He would be installing 4ft oak grandfather posts with the distance and time on them. So far,he has routes planned in Westgate, Stanhope, Rookhope, Wearhead, St Johns Chapel and Frosterley. Routes already done are in Seaham, Durham Dales, Tow Law. The routes start at a Community Centre or a Village Hall and part of the aim is to attract people to the area and use the local coffee shops. The routes can be downloaded onto a mobile phone or printed out. Cllr Mrs Thompson asked if the walks would be in a booklet which they will be when they reach one hundred. Also, there is an idea that there would be one hundred stories to go with the one hundred walks. Cllr Blackett mentioned if there would be any routes for wheelchairs. Mr Young commented not in Weardale due to the hills and wants to give the best experience in Weardale which means most walks will be above the river level. This is being looked at in other areas. Cllr Mrs Sutcliff mentioned the Pilgrims Way which is a linear walk from Bishop Auckland to Killhope. Mr Young was interested in this and Cllr Lawrie’s contact details were passed onto him. Cllr Craig suggested that no routes should go through any farm yards. Mr Young takes guidance from the Rights of Way Officer. Cllr Blackett mentioned that his son has walked many footpaths Mr Young would be keen to talk to him. Mr Young would like to hold a launch walk with the local school children and go into the schools to do a promotional assembly.
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Correspondence Received
1. A resident from Eastgate has complained about a large tonne bag of sand that has been left after building works had been finished. It has been left in front of South View and is an eyesore and spoiling the area where people park their cars.
2. Cllr Mrs Thompson asked for the footpath to be weeded around the bus stop in Ireshopeburn. D Hunt was contacted. Resolved: The weeds have not been removedyet clerk to write again
3. Cllr Lawrie asked that the Town Hall roof be reported as a roof tile had come off onto the pavement. Reported to the estate agent who is selling the property.
4. Cllr Miss Carrick received a complaint that the fossil tree cannot be seen with the barriers there. They wondered if the barriers cold of been placed behind the tree rather than in front of it. The clerk contacted the church warden who explained that the barriers could not go behind the fossil tree due to the graves and also that the work is nearly finished.
5. Allen Sykes have sent a letter and a schedule of services together with their Terms of Business. They are bound by ICAEW,s Code of Ethics, and Professional Conduct in Relation to Taxation and accept instructions to act for us on the basis that they act in accordance with these ethical guidelines. The letter was signed and returned.
6. Northern Powergrid have been asked by BT to provide a new low voltage electricity connection to a mast site at Collier Law. The underground cable is around 120m and runs through Common Land. The landowner has given permission and assent has been submitted to Natural England. The Wayleave Officer would like the approval from the Parish Council. Resolved: The councillors have no problem with this
7. A resident is complaining about the weeds in Stanhope streets and front street. Also, by Ronnie Bells and the fire station. The footpath needs cutting back from Crawleyside down to the dene bridge. Also, the flower tubs on the market place that haven’t been planted. Even with the work going on at the church the tubs still could have been planted.
8. DCC has operated a selective licensing scheme for private rented housing for five years. The scheme allowed DCC to work closely with landlords and provide additional support to ensure their rental properties are of a high standard and meet the needs of residents. It allowed for enforcement action to take place when a landlord failed to engage with the scheme and not provide safe housing for their tenants. The scheme is due to expire 31st March 2027 and a new selective licensing scheme is proposed from 1st April 2027. This will be treated as a new designation for all areas proposed to be included in the scheme. DCC must consult on Reasons why we need selective licensing as opposed to alternative solutions, Areas we propose to be covered by the new scheme and the evidence that shows they meet the selective licensing criteria, Licence conditions, Licence fees and potential discounts. Closing date is Wednesday 12th August 2026. Cllr Turton explained that this does not apply to properties in our area. It is for sub-standardproperties.
9. The Weardale Museum newsletter has been sent to all of the councillors
10. A tenant from Stanhope Hall has lost his strawberries and broccoli due to rats. The rats are also eating his potatoes. If nothing is done then he will be giving the plot up. He also has traps down but the rats are tunnelling. The neighbouring tenant has got rat traps down and is putting poison down. The feed for hens is kept in a metal container and the hens are being fed on a tray so there is no feed on the ground. The other tenants have got traps down but some feel that pest control is needed before it gets out of hand. Resolved: Councillors mentioned that tenants to do their own rat control.
11. The Rural Advice Worker Weardale and Tow Law can be contacted on 07736 910337. The adviser can look at increasing income, check benefit entitlement, help fill out forms, access grants for essential items and connect you with support in the locality.
12. The consultation on Have your say on the future of our buses is open for responses until 28th September 2026
13. Three new bus services are launching across County Durham to help visitors and residents explore its key attractions. The Durham Explorer services will run on weekends and bank holidays until 31st August this year. Two posters have been placed in the Notice Board in Stanhope. Resolved: Clerk to find out how much Weardale bus company charge
14. A resident has reported a hedge that is hanging over onto the footpath along High Street, Stanhope. The hedge is that bushy people are having to walk onto the road. This is for the owner of the property to cut the bush back.
15. The plot at Bondisle that was cleared is now finished and an excellent job has been done. A new fence has been put up and the ground has been dug over again. The new fence has been put in line with the shed which Cllr Lawrie agreed to. While we were down there some residents explained about the gate that has to be opened to get onto the footpath next to the railway line. Mobility scooters are struggling to open the gate and there is a dangerous drop on the left-hand side. The gate could have been put on by the Weardale Railway. Resolved: Clerk to find out who is responsible for the gate
16. A resident has reported that a cobble between the church and the Bonny Moor Hen has been filled in with tarmac and looks terrible. This should have been repaired properly with another cobble stone. Resolved: Clerk to report to DCC
17. A resident from Frosterley is complaining about the state of the weeds and that everywhere looks neglected. The footpath from Frosterley to Stanhope will soon be non-existing as its still covered in last year’s leaves and is covered in weeds. It gives such a bad impression to tourists visiting the area. The resident would also like to report that the gully sucker used to go around Kirk Rise and clean the drains out, but this hasn’t happened this year. Also, the footpaths need a good brush. There is a dead pigeon on the path just past the bus garage and on the other side of the road there is dead hedgehog on the path.
18. Cllr Turton sent an email that PC Booth in the rural watch group suggested applying for a Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) to tackle the antisocial behaviour that takes place in Bollihope. Despite the weather and risk of wildfires, people are still having barbeques and fires over there. Apparently PSPOs are in place around High and Low Force and prohibit drinking alcohol, lighting fires or barbeques, and camping or sleeping overnight, with potential fines. Cllr Turton has been sent an email complaining about the state of Bollihope at the weekend. The email has been sent to the councillors showing the comments.
19. A resident is complaining about the alarm that keeps going off at the Bonny Moor Hen in Stanhope. It often goes off in the middle of the night disturbing people’s sleep. The alarm needs to be fixed or disabled. This is not a Parish Council matter
20. The Council Plan sets out ambitions for County Durham which are Reforming the council, Supercharging the economy, Building better communities, Caring for people and Practical environmental stewardship. Visit help shape the Council Plan 2027-2031 to complete the online survey or email to . Consultation closes 23rd September 2026 Resolved: Cllrs to send in their own comments
21. A resident has reported a broken and loose kerb stone outside of 11 High Street, Stanhope. Resolved: Clerk to report
22. DCC are producing a new Indoor Built Facility Strategy and demand model to assess if there are enough facilities of the right quality to meet current and future demand as well as being accessible and affordable. This will help to safeguard existing provision and identify where new provision may be required. Town/Parish Councils are key to providing facilities for community use therefore as part of this strategy, DCC would like to consult with us to gauge feedback and inform the future direction of indoor leisure and sports facilities in the Council area. Resolved: Cllrs to send in their own comments
23. The Civic Pride Team at DCC is preparing for the first ever Big Autumn Clean which will run the entire month of September. We can help by Litter Picking in our local area, promote the Big Autumn Clea, Encourage residents to take up litter picking and support the organisation of new events in our area. The Civic Pride Team can help by providing litter-picking equipment, rubbish collection, health & safety guidance and support and advice to plan a successful community event.
24. A report has come in that there are some loose foot boards on the foot bridge over the River Wear next to the ford between Burnfoot in St Johns Chapel and the North Bank of the river. This could cause risk injury or fatalities. Resolved: Clerk to report to DCC
25. A resident from Crawleyside was querying why they had never received any voting papers. An email was sent explaining that they were in Stanhope Rural.
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Planning Matters
DM/26/01681/FPA
Erection of detached garage
The Coach House
34 East End
Stanhope
DM/26/01679/VOC
Variation of conditions 2 (approved plans) and 3 (windows and doors) pursuant to planning permission DM/21/03884/FPA to revise window/door positions, alter windows/doors to UPVC, insert a roof light and alter roof
Land and Barn to the
North West of High View
Wearhead
DM/26/01712/FPA
Window and door replacement, re-roofing inc, replacement of bargeboards and soffits and demolition of existing chimney stacks, installation of solar panels to front roof and slopes, installation of heat pumps to rear and battery storage/invertor with associated canopy to side.
7,10,11 &12
Boltsburn Crescent
Rookhope
DM/25/03258/FPA
Change of roof covering from slate to a cement based tile (with retention of existing ridge Tiles) and addition of one velux window in bedroom (Retrospective)
23 East Lane
Stanhope
Planning Approvals for August Meeting 2026
DM/25/02838/FPA
Two storey extension with subterranean level and a single storey link on the footprint of the existing hay, barn (amended plans 26-1-26)
Lea Foot Byers
Brotherlee
DM/25/03168/FPA
Conversion to create 4 no holiday cottages including alteration of listed building
DM/25/03169/LB
Snowhope Close
Stanhope
DM/26/01195/PA56
Erection of an agricultural general purpose infill building to create a covered yard area
Follow up to DM/26/00598/PNA
Burtreeford
Cowshill
DM/25/02467/FPA
Large Garage block
Moor Rigg
Frosterley
DM/25/01234/FPA
Retention of two agricultural buildings
East Lane
Stanhope
DM/24/02233/FPA
Conversion of barn to dwelling
Ludwell
Eastgate
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Finance
1. The street light that needed repairing at Westgate has been repaired. The condition of the pole is giving concern and it was advisable not to mount ladders against it. The light was repaired from the works vehicle.
2. Bank Reconciliation figures for June 30th 2026 and July 31st have been sent along with the budget report.Resolved: Agreed
3. The entrance to Bondisle allotments from the solicitors bank would need 5 tonnes of type 1 to level the corner off. The cost will be £187.50 Fairless at Eastgate and £252 from JT Atkinson at Barnard Castle and £231 plus vat from S&A Crook. At the moment mobility scooters come in the bottom gate but the request to have the corner levelled off came from one of the tenants who has a mobility scooter. Resolved: As there is access on the level at the bottom gate then the councillors agreed that this was not necessary
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Accounts for Payment
Mulligans Skip Hire PAID 7/7/2026 £320.00
Eastgate Village Hall Hire June/July £60.00
ZURICH Insurance Renewal £1556.19
DCC Street Light repair Westgate £240.00
Eastgate Village Hall August £30.00
P Irwin Ashcroft Playpark
Questioning Invoice dates £180.00
S Anderson salary £923.55
HM Rev £116.92
S Anderson Expenses £61.62
S Anderson Home as Office £35.00
BT Clerks Phone Bill PAID £83.39
Accounts for Receipts
HMRC VAT Refund £477.13
Direct Debits
Bank Charges £9.10
EON Ashcroft Play Park £26.29
EE £31.80
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New Matters for Discussion
1. Cllr Brewin mentioned that there is footpath over the bridge at Broadwood where it has been blocked off. Resolved: Clerk to contact Rights of Way
2. Cllr Brewin mentioned there is a gate that is locked into a quarry but more information is needed.
3. There are concerns about the footpath in the Church as to who owns it and the lead has been pinched off the roof.
4. Cllr Brewin would like to know when Frosterley Play Park will be refurbished. This is in hand.
5. Cllr Craig has had enquiries about what was the tennis courts. These will not be opened up for two to three people
6. Cllr Blackett would like to report that the bridges need attention in Slitt Wood. Resolved: Clerk to contact DCC
7. Cllr Mrs Sutcliff would like to report that by Jacobs Ladder there are bushes either side that need cutting back Resolved: Clerk to contact DCC
8. Cllr Turton mentioned about buying some Litter Picker sticks. Resolved: The councillors declined
9. There is a sign on the road side that the Grey Bull have put up but it is blocking the view of the traffic. Resolved: Clerk to contact the owner
10. Cllr Mrs Wright mentioned that there was a car for sale on the grass by Centenary Close which has now been removed
11. Cllr Mrs Wright has cleaned the phone box in Stanhope and put some posters in it.
12. Cllr Miss Carrick mentioned there was a post on Facebook asking why the resident had to pay money towards Stanhope Parish Council when they did not live in Stanhope. Cllr Miss Carrick explained why.
13. At the main steps into the playpark at Ashcroft there is a self seeding tree that needs removing. Resolved: Clerk to ask D Hunt
14. There is a branch on the roadside before you get into Eastgate that needs removing. Resolved: Clerk to report
15. The Notice Board at Cowshill is sticking so needs looking at. Resolved: Clerk to get this looked at
16. The birds eye fencing opposite the Grey Bull needs repairing. Resolved: Clerk to report to DCC
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Clerks Business
Nothing to report
Meeting Closed at 20.34pm
Date of next meeting is Wednesday 2nd September 2026 at Eastgate Village Hall commencing at 7pm
