It’s been a very busy January for your local Labour Councillors.
We’ve spent a considerable amount of time in Ferryhill Station chasing up fly-tipping. We have been working hard to get the place cleaned up.
Councillor Atkinson raised the persistent fly-tipping at a DCC environment committee. We have always argued for more prosecutions and tougher action on fly-tipping by DCC as it would serve as a deterrent.
Another key focus in January was tackling the appalling dog fouling situation.
We have reported numerous piles for clean-up but we want more preventative measures in place. We are currently putting together a campaign to keep dog mess off our streets.
There were several reports of damage to shops in the town centre due to the storm such as that at the old Barclays Bank. We managed to get the site secured.
It is the responsibility of the County Council to ensure buildings are safe, however it is up the owner of the building to bring that building back into use.
We were pleased to see the commencement of major road works in the Town, including Dean Road and Market Street.
However, we have complained to DCC about their shambolic communication regarding the temporary bus and taxi stops.
We called on them to make it clear to bus companies which stop they are supposed to use. This will prevent confusion for local residents.
At the Town Council Meeting we agreed to invest in improving notice boards across the town.
We also want to work with local groups to help advertise local activities and events. We also agreed to pursue a project to install a footpath at Brian Avery Walk. This would help accessibility for disabled residents.
You may have noticed that Ferryhill Town Council have installed solar panels on the Town Hall roof.
This project affirms our commitment to lowering our carbon footprint and reducing energy bills.
This project was grant funded so it came at no cost to the tax-payer and will save us money going forward. A smart investment with environmental and financial benefit.
At this month’s Durham County Council meeting we both supported calls to reinstate free parking across County Durham from 2pm to support local businesses.
We also supported the council pursuing legal action to reclaim the £1.2 million for the 5 failed levelling-up bids.
Councillor Atkinson has also funded some more seating to be located at the entrance to the CARS Nature Reserve and supporting community groups such as Team Warrior Taekwondo and Endeavour Woodcrafts along with other County Councillors.
Wishing you all well, Councillors Curtis Bihari and Peter Atkinson, your Labour Durham County Councillors.
Ferryhill & Chilton's local community newspaper.
