Reform hit back at MP’s claims

Council leaders have hit back at a regional MP after he criticised Reform UK for the uncertain futures of cultural events in County Durham, writes Local Democracy Reporter Bill Edgar.

Alan Strickland, who represents Newton Aycliffe and Spennymoor, warned during Prime Minister’s Questions that Reform UK has “slashed” funding for Durham Pride and “cancelled” the Lumiere Festival.

The Labour MP made the comments during a question about the tourism boost the major events provide.

But Reform leaders on Durham County Council refuted the claims and said it was not responsible for Lumiere’s decision to end after 2025. 

Speaking in the House of Commons on October 22, Alan Strickland MP said: “Does the Prime Minister share my disappointment that since Reform took over Durham County Council, they have slashed funding for Durham Pride, which brings in 20,000 a year.

“They can’t cope with accountability. They have cancelled the Lumiere Festival, which has brought nearly 1.5 million people into County Durham since it started, undermining business and communities.”

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer responded, saying: “As voters in Durham can see, what you get if you vote Reform is total chaos and broken promises.”

Lumiere’s organisers have said that the spectacular light show required “investment and commitment at a level that is increasingly difficult to secure”.

Bringing the event to a close after 16 years was described as a joint decision between Durham County Council and producers Artichoke.

Lumiere is said to have attracted 1.3 million visitors since its introduction and added more than £43 million to the local economy.

However, Reform reiterated its previous pledge to find a solution for the popular light festival to continue.

Andrew Husband, Durham council leader, said: “Whilst this decision was not made by the current administration, we, alongside partners, recognise that a funding strategy is needed for the event going forward. Therefore, it is appropriate that a review be undertaken that also presents an opportunity to reassess our events programme and ensure it remains ambitious, innovative, and fit for the future.

“I would like to reaffirm that should a sustainable funding strategy be found for Lumiere, we would be supportive of a refreshed and revitalised event continuing in the county.”

Cllr Husband said he will also contact North East mayor Kim McGuinness to discuss the availability of regional resources, following the Labour mayor’s commitment to providing support.

The decision to cut council funding for Durham’s Pride event was announced in August, with Reform pledging to divert funding into key services.

Responding to the MP’s comments, deputy council leader Darren Grimes said: “While Alan Strickland attacks from his gold-gilded chamber in Westminster, we’re here in Durham grappling with a £70 million black hole left behind by Labour and their Lib Dem hangers-on.

“Labour funds windmills while families wait for wheelchairs. If Mr Strickland really cared about County Durham, he’d be fighting for fair funding and a fix to the crippling high-needs crisis — not grandstanding over flags and festivals.”