Dear Editor,
Setting the Record Straight
Throughout January we have seen a significant increase in negative social media commentary targeting those organisations and individuals investing in and representing the town.
Misinformation has also been circulated regarding the status of current projects and the future development plans for the Market Place.
The pessimism of this particular brand of ‘keyboard wisdom’, from a few individuals, distorts the reality of what is actually happening and creates frustration and disappointment for the greater majority of our residents who are supportive of efforts being made to achieve better outcomes for our town.
In addition to this inaccurate speculation there have been some posts mentioning ‘favouritism’ and ‘brown envelopes’. These particular comments are entirely without foundation. However you can always exercise your right to have your specific concerns investigated by contacting the Fraud Team at Durham County Council at corporatefraudteam[@]durham[.]gov[.]uk or telephone 03000 266 745.
The amount of effort and financial support, the tangible results achieved and the very positive plans for the future demonstrate that some significant improvements have already been delivered; with work on key projects still very much underway, designed to enhance services, appearance and visitor appeal, and which are scheduled for completion in the near future.
Clearly we have experienced some missteps along the way and also some unforeseen delays, generally due to complications that can arise as work progresses, but complex projects have an equally challenging timetable and these aspects should be considered in that context.
Finally I’d like to say that residents are very welcome to attend Council meetings, where these matters are discussed in an open forum, and you’ll then have accurate information, not rumour, on which to make your own judgement. In addition if anyone would like to speak or see me personally my contact details are on Town Council website.
Yours sincerely,
Cllr Mike Harker, Mayor, Bishop Auckland Town Council.
PS: As a timely reminder local elections at both Town and County Council levels are due to take place on May 1st; so providing an excellent and real opportunity for individuals to stand for election and hopefully offer their knowledge and expertise to residents – firstly by working to improve the town’s Regeneration Programme and secondly to take up the challenge and support those trying hard to improve Newgate Street.
Bishop Auckland's local community newspaper.
