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Weekly updates

Leisure centres scaled back; budget pressures mount

This week in County Durham:

Leisure Centres Face Uncertain Future as Programme Costs Soar

County Durham's ambitious Leisure Transformation Programme, designed to modernise facilities across the region, is facing significant financial headwinds and scaled-back ambitions. A joint meeting of the Environment and Sustainable Communities Overview and Scrutiny Committee and the Economy and Enterprise Overview and Scrutiny Committee heard that while several centres have been successfully refurbished, projects in Chester-Le-Street and Seaham have been significantly reduced in scope, and a proposed sporting hub at Riverside has been paused indefinitely.

The programme, launched in 2020, has already seen substantial investment in facilities like Abbey Leisure Centre, Peterlee Leisure Centre, the Louisa Centre, Spennymoor Leisure Centre, and Teesdale Leisure Centre. However, the report presented to the committees highlighted a series of challenges that have impacted the programme's trajectory.

Key Challenges Driving Programme Changes:

  • Soaring Construction Costs: High and volatile inflation, coupled with rising interest rates and the cost-of-living crisis, has dramatically increased construction expenses.
  • Unforeseen Building Issues: The age and condition of existing facilities have led to unexpected repair costs and delays, with an estimated £10-£15 million liability for building condition and compliance factors remaining.
  • Contractor Collapse: The liquidation of the main contractor for several projects, including the new build at Bishop Auckland Leisure Centre, has caused significant delays and financial strain.
  • Financial Pressures: Concerns have also been raised about the council's VAT partial exemption position, which could result in a substantial VAT repayment.

The impact of these challenges is stark:

  • Reduced Scope for Seaham and Chester-Le-Street: Plans for new builds or extensive refurbishments at these centres have been scaled back, with only £2 million ringfenced for essential maintenance to keep them operational. This means residents in these areas may not see the transformative upgrades initially promised.
  • Paused Riverside Project: The proposed sporting hub at Riverside, with an allocated budget of £2.34 million, has been put on hold due to difficulties in reaching consensus and financial constraints. The future of this project remains uncertain.

Despite these setbacks, the council has consolidated leisure operations under a single management model and implemented digital enhancements to improve customer experience. While the programme has reportedly led to increased memberships and income, the financial pressures and reduced scope raise questions about the long-term sustainability and equitable delivery of leisure services across the county.

Read more about the Environment and Sustainable Communities Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting here.

Council Faces Financial Tightrope as Q2 Outturn Reports Show Varied Performance

County Durham Council's Corporate Overview and Scrutiny Management Board reviewed the council's financial outturn for the second quarter of the 2025/26 financial year, revealing a mixed picture of underspends and significant pressures, particularly within Children's Services. While some departments are reporting savings, the overall financial health of the council is being closely monitored as it navigates the complexities of the Medium Term Financial Plan.

Key Financial Highlights:

  • Chief Executive's Office: A projected underspend of £47,000 is anticipated, largely due to managed vacancies and staff turnover. However, an underachieved income budget in Design Services partially offsets these savings.
  • Resources Service Grouping: A substantial underspend of £2.508 million is forecast, primarily driven by managed vacancies across various departments. This is a strategic move to anticipate savings required by the Medium Term Financial Plan (MTFP) 2026/27.
  • Children in Care Overspend: A significant concern is the projected overspend of £5 million against the Children in Care placements budget. This is attributed to an increased number of children requiring care, placing a considerable strain on resources and potentially impacting the support available for vulnerable young people.
  • Homelessness Pressures: Rising demand for homeless assessments, particularly from families with complex needs, is also contributing to increased costs.

The Board also received a comprehensive performance management report, highlighting strong progress in areas such as reducing complaints, high employee attendance, and supporting businesses. However, areas requiring attention include an increase in sick days and planning applications not being completed within deadlines.

The provisional local government settlement for the Medium Term Financial Plan (MTFP) 2026/27 to 2029/30 will be a critical factor in shaping the council's financial strategy for the coming years. The council's ability to manage these financial pressures will directly impact the delivery of essential services to residents.

Read more about the Corporate Overview and Scrutiny Management Board meeting here.

Fire Authority Reviews National Safety Report and Bonfire Campaign Successes

The Combined Fire Authority for County Durham and Darlington met to discuss critical national safety reports and evaluate the effectiveness of its recent Bonfire Campaign. The State of Fire Report from His Majesty's Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services (HMICFRS) provided a national overview of the fire and rescue sector, highlighting areas of progress and persistent challenges.

The HMICFRS report, which covered inspections between February 2023 and August 2025, noted improvements in prevention and protection work but identified ongoing issues with leadership, culture, and the on-call duty system. The Authority was tasked with considering the implications of these national findings for the County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service.

In a more localised context, the Authority reviewed the Bonfire Campaign Evaluation 2025. This multi-agency effort, involving Durham County Council, Darlington Borough Council, Durham Constabulary, and Trading Standards, aimed to reduce risks associated with bonfires and the illegal sale of fireworks. The evaluation covered operational outcomes, educational sessions, and communication efforts, comparing the 2025 campaign with previous years. Lessons learned from this evaluation will inform planning for the 2026 campaign, with the goal of ensuring public safety during the bonfire season.

The meeting also included updates from various committees, such as the Audit and Finance Committee, Human Resources Committee, and Performance Committee, providing a comprehensive overview of the Fire Authority's operational and strategic activities.

Read more about the Combined Fire Authority for County Durham and Darlington meeting here.

Other Matters

Upcoming Meetings

Here's a list of upcoming meetings, including their main topics:

Children's Services leadership sought

This week in County Durham:

Children's Services Faces Critical Staffing Decisions Amidst Growing Demand

The recruitment of a new Corporate Director of Children and Young People's Services is a top priority for County Durham Council, with the Chief Officer Appointments Committee holding formal interviews this week. This crucial role oversees services that are under immense pressure due to increasing demand. The previous recruitment process saw five candidates progress to this stage, highlighting the importance of finding the right leadership to navigate the complex challenges within children's services.

The Corporate Director of Children and Young People's Services plays a pivotal role in ensuring the safety and well-being of the county's most vulnerable children. Decisions made by this individual and their team have a direct impact on the lives of children in care, those at risk of harm, and the support provided to families. The current pressures on these services, including rising numbers of children requiring placements and the need for skilled social workers, mean that this appointment is more critical than ever. The committee's deliberations, which were held in private, underscore the sensitive nature of these appointments and the need for careful consideration of candidates' experience and suitability.

Read more about the Chief Officer Appointments Committee meeting here.

Standards Committee Grapples with Code of Conduct Allegations

The Standards Committee Hearing Panel convened to address multiple cases involving alleged breaches of the Members' Code of Conduct. While the specific details of these cases remain confidential, the panel's work is essential for upholding ethical standards and maintaining public trust in local government. The committee also reviewed the council's Code of Conduct for Members and the Protocol on Member-Officer Relations, ensuring that clear guidelines are in place for the behaviour of elected officials and their interactions with council staff.

The Code of Conduct for Members is built on seven principles: selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty, and leadership. These principles guide councillors in their public duties, ensuring that decisions are made in the best interests of the community. The protocol on Member-Officer Relations clarifies the distinct roles of elected members and council officers, promoting a professional and respectful working relationship. The panel's deliberations, though private, are a vital part of the council's commitment to transparency and accountability.

Read more about the Standards Committee Hearing Panel meeting here.

Environment Partnership Faces Shifting Priorities Amidst Climate Concerns

The Environment and Sustainable Communities Overview and Scrutiny Committee received an update on the County Durham Environment Partnership, a body that brings together various organisations to address environmental issues. The partnership is currently reviewing its objectives in light of the council's decision to rescind its Climate Emergency declaration and the agreement of a new Council Plan. This strategic shift means the partnership must adapt its focus to align with new priorities, while still addressing critical environmental challenges.

The partnership's work is organised around three key areas: Climate, Ecology, and Place, Health and Community. Despite the rescinding of the Climate Emergency declaration, the Climate Workstream aims to continue its focus on energy efficiency, sustainability, and future energy security. The Ecology Workstream is central to developing the statutory Local Nature Recovery Strategy, crucial for protecting and enhancing biodiversity. However, the partnership faces significant hurdles, including securing partner commitment, navigating funding scarcity, and addressing the public's immediate concerns during crises. The committee's review highlights the ongoing effort to balance environmental stewardship with evolving political and economic landscapes.

Read more about the Environment and Sustainable Communities Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting here.

Other Matters

  • The Adults, Wellbeing and Health Overview and Scrutiny Committee discussed a range of vital health-related topics. These included a performance update from the North East Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust, the Director of Public Health's Annual Report for 2025, and the Durham Safeguarding Adults Partnership Annual Report for 2024/25. The committee also reviewed the outcomes of the Local Government Association Employers Health Check survey for Adult Social Care staff and received a forecast of revenue and capital outturn for 2025/26. A presentation on the County Durham and Darlington NHS Foundation Trust's Independent Governance Review of Breast Services was also scheduled, highlighting significant weaknesses in leadership and oversight that have impacted patient care. Read more here.
  • The General Licensing and Registration Sub-Committee (1) met to consider the ongoing suitability of two licensed drivers. These discussions, held in private, are crucial for ensuring public safety and maintaining standards within the taxi and private hire industry. Read more here.
  • The Durham Family Panel convened to discuss a comprehensive set of updates concerning children's services. Key topics included Ofsted updates, feedback from young people through the Children in Care Council and Care Leavers Network, and annual reports on the Virtual School and support for care leavers. The panel also received updates on adoption services, kinship care, and the Durham Safeguarding Children Partnership, demonstrating a broad focus on the welfare of children and young people in the county. Read more here.
  • The Combined Fire Authority for County Durham and Darlington Appeals Committee held an appeal hearing. Such hearings are important for ensuring fair processes and addressing individual grievances within the fire service. Read more here.
  • The Statutory Licensing Sub-Committee was scheduled to consider an application for a premises licence for Premier Supermarket. This process is vital for regulating businesses that sell alcohol and ensuring they operate responsibly within the community. Read more here.

Upcoming Meetings

Here's a list of upcoming meetings, including their main topics:

Children's services overspend; Spennymoor vision

This week in County Durham:

Children's Services Faces Overspend Amidst Rising Demand

County Durham Council's Children and Young People's Services is grappling with a significant projected overspend of £9.5 million, a stark increase from previous forecasts. This financial pressure is largely driven by a surge in children requiring care placements, particularly in residential settings, and ongoing challenges with staffing. The Children and Young People's Overview and Scrutiny Committee reviewed the Quarter Two 2025/2026 forecast, highlighting the critical need for investment in preventative services and in-house care options. Read the full story here.

  • Soaring Costs: The overspend is primarily attributed to an increase in the number of children in care, with a particular rise in the need for more expensive residential placements. This puts immense strain on the council's budget, potentially impacting the resources available for other vital services.
  • Staffing Pressures: The report also points to challenges in social worker staffing, which can lead to increased caseloads and impact the quality of support provided to vulnerable children and families.
  • Focus on Prevention: To address these escalating costs and improve outcomes, the council is looking to invest more in preventative measures. This includes expanding early intervention programmes and strengthening support for families before issues escalate to the point where children require statutory intervention.
  • Growing In-House Capacity: The council is also prioritising the development of its own in-house fostering and children's home services. This aims to provide more stable and consistent care for children, reduce reliance on external providers, and potentially offer better value for money in the long term.

The committee was asked to note the overall financial position and the actions being taken to manage these challenges. The implications of this overspend could mean difficult choices ahead for the council, potentially affecting the scope and delivery of services for children and young people across the county.

Standards Board Tackles Code of Conduct Complaints

The Standards Assessment Board met to review updates on ongoing complaints lodged under the Code of Conduct for Members. While specific details of the complaints remain confidential, the board received an overview of the volume and nature of allegations received between November and December 2025. This process is crucial for maintaining public trust and ensuring that elected officials uphold high ethical standards. Read the full story here.

  • High Volume of Complaints: Between 1 November and 19 December 2025, twenty Code of Conduct complaints were received. Of these, fourteen were rejected for not engaging the Code of Conduct, and one remained at the pre-assessment stage.
  • Deferred Cases: A number of complaints have been deferred to future meetings due to the complexity of the cases and the Christmas break. The target date for assessment of some of these cases is February 2026.
  • Legal Duty: The council has a duty under the Localism Act 2011 to promote and maintain high standards of conduct among its members. This involves having robust arrangements for considering allegations of breaches of the Code of Conduct.
  • Impact on Reputation: Failure to comply with the Code of Conduct can damage the council's reputation and erode public confidence in local governance.

The board's work is essential for ensuring accountability and transparency within the council.

Spennymoor's 10-Year Vision Moves Forward

The Spennymoor Town Board has taken a significant step forward with its 10-year vision and 4-year investment plan, which has been submitted to central government. The board met to discuss progress on regeneration and community engagement initiatives, aiming to transform Spennymoor into a premier destination to live, work, and visit. Read the full story here.

  • Community-Driven Regeneration: The vision is built on five pillars: connected communities, green and attractive spaces, a vibrant local economy, health and wellbeing, and learning and skills. Extensive community engagement, including surveys and public events, has shaped these priorities.
  • Investment Plan Focus: The investment plan outlines actions across various working groups, addressing regeneration, transport, safety, health, and skills development. For example, the Transport Working Group is focusing on walking and cycling improvements, while the Safety and Security Working Group aims to tackle anti-social behaviour and improve street lighting.
  • Transition to Pride in Place: The programme is transitioning from the Plan for Neighbourhoods to the Pride in Place Programme, expanding its scope and introducing new intervention areas like housing and skills development. This aligns with the council's commitment to empowering local areas and fostering stronger communities.
  • Community Voice: A key objective is to ensure a strong community voice in shaping local priorities, with plans for ongoing engagement events and platforms for resident feedback.

This initiative represents a significant effort to revitalise Spennymoor, with a clear focus on improving the quality of life for its residents.

Other Matters

  • The Standards Assessment Board was scheduled to consider updates on ongoing complaints under the Code of Conduct for Members. The meeting agenda included the consideration of two specific complaint references. Read the full story here.
  • The Appeals and Complaints Sub-Committee was scheduled to consider an appeal that had been previously scheduled for December 2025. The meeting was also set to address any resolutions relating to the exclusion of the public during discussions involving exempt information. Read the full story here.

Upcoming Meetings

Here's a list of upcoming meetings, including their main topics:

Durham pub licence review, poverty strategy, and footpath dispute

This week in County Durham:

Spennymoor Pub's Licence Under Review Following Violent Incident

Quinns Inn, a pub in Spennymoor, faces a potential licence revocation or suspension after a serious assault occurred on its premises. The Statutory Licensing Sub-Committee convened to review the premises licence following an application from Durham Constabulary, who cited concerns about serious crime and disorder. Read the full story here.

  • Police Concerns: Durham Constabulary's application stems from an incident on 22 November 2025, where police were called to Quinns Inn after ambulance staff reported a male being unconscious with a cut to the eyebrow. The injured male was later reported to have life-threatening injuries and was taken to hospital for emergency surgery on his brain.
  • CCTV Evidence: CCTV footage allegedly shows an altercation inside the pub, with the victim being punched and kicked while on the ground. The application claims that door staff were present while this assault was taking place and that a member of staff mopped up blood from the floor.
  • Interim Measures: The Licensing Statutory Sub-Committee previously met and decided to remove Mrs Susan Ellis as the designated premises supervisor (DPS) and suspend the premises licence, pending a full review.
  • Licence Holder's Response: Mrs Ellis, the licence holder, stated that she has been the landlady of Quinns Inn for 25 years and that the pub is her life. She stated that as soon as she became aware of what had occurred, she took immediate steps, including communicating with the police, ensuring all CCTV was preserved and passed on, reviewing the incident thoroughly with staff, and updating and strengthening policies and procedures.
  • Possible Outcomes: The sub-committee has several options, including taking no further action, modifying the licence conditions, suspending the licence, or revoking it entirely.

The decision could have significant implications for the pub's future and the safety of the Spennymoor community.

Council to Consult on New Poverty Strategy Amidst Rising Financial Insecurity

Durham County Council's Cabinet is set to consider a refreshed Poverty Strategy for 2026-2030, acknowledging the ongoing challenges of financial insecurity intensified by the coronavirus pandemic and sustained inflationary pressures. The Cabinet is expected to approve a public consultation on the proposed strategy. Read the full story here.

  • Strategic Pillars: The refreshed strategy is structured around five proposed strategic pillars: Prevention, Protection, Pathways, Participation, and Partnerships.
  • Focus on Workforce: The strategy aims to create clear pathways out of poverty by supporting residents back into the workforce and building skills for long-term financial resilience, while also providing short-term crisis support.
  • Alignment with Regional Strategies: The refreshed strategy is scheduled to align with the strategic direction of the North East Combined Authority and the County Durham Health and Wellbeing Board Joint Health and Wellbeing Strategy 2023-2028.

The new strategy aims to address the root causes of poverty and provide support for those struggling with financial hardship.

Public Footpath Dispute in West Rainton Heads to Committee

The Highways Committee is scheduled to discuss an application to add a public footpath to the Definitive Map and Statement of Public Rights of Way (PRoW) in West Rainton. The proposed path would connect Public Right of Way (PRoW) 2, The Dene, to PRoW 21, The Red Track. Read the full story here.

  • User Evidence: The application is supported by user evidence forms and witness statements from 33 individuals, with 21 users meeting the requirement of 20 or more years of use.
  • Landowner Objections: The landowner objects to the application, believing that the path is permissive and that the public's use has been interrupted.
  • Parish Council Support: West Rainton and Leamside Parish Council (WRLPC) supports the application.
  • Legal Tests: Officers are of the view that the legal tests have been met, and that the objector's evidence is insufficient to demonstrate that the path has been used other than as of right.

The committee will need to weigh the evidence and decide whether to add the public footpath to the Definitive Map and Statement.

Other Matters

  • The Economy and Enterprise Overview and Scrutiny Committee are scheduled to discuss updates on the County Durham Housing Strategy, the County Durham Plan, the quarter two forecast of revenue and capital outturn, and the minutes from the County Durham Economic Partnership Board meeting held on 16 September 2025. Read the full story here.
  • The Chief Officer Appointments Committee is expected to discuss the recruitment shortlist for the Corporate Director of Children and Young People's Services. Read the full story here.
  • The Police and Crime Panel are scheduled to meet to discuss the Durham Constabulary's implementation of the Right Care, Right Person scheme, and to review the Police and Crime Commissioner's performance and delivery report for the second quarter of 2025/26. Read the full story here.
  • The Appeals and Complaints Sub-Committee is scheduled to convene to address an appeal from the council's Resources department. Read the full story here.
  • The General Licensing and Registration Sub-Committee (3) is scheduled to convene to address both public and private matters, including the consideration of a private hire driver licence. Read the full story here.
  • The Area Planning Committee (North) is scheduled to meet to discuss planning application DM/25/01765/FPA for the erection of a foodstore, and to confirm the minutes of their previous meeting. Read the full story here.

Council Tax Changes, Public Health Report, and Incinerator Debate

This week in County Durham:

Council Tax Support Shake-Up: Thousands Face Higher Bills

Durham County Council is poised to overhaul its Local Council Tax Reduction Scheme (LCTRS), a move that could leave thousands of working-age residents facing higher council tax bills. The full council debated the controversial proposals, which aim to address financial pressures and create a fairer system. Read the full story here.

  • Income-Banded System: The council plans to introduce an income-banded scheme, replacing the current system where many low-income residents pay nothing.
  • Reduced Maximum Support: The maximum level of support could be capped at 90%, meaning all working-age residents would have to pay at least 10% of their council tax.
  • Equality Impact: An equality impact assessment revealed that the changes would disproportionately affect women and disabled residents.
  • Immoral vs. Fair : Councillor Mark Wilkes (Liberal Democrat) called the proposals immoral, while Councillor Pete Molloy (Independent) argued that everyone should contribute in some way.

The decision has sparked heated debate, with critics warning of increased hardship for vulnerable residents and supporters arguing for a more sustainable and equitable system.

Public Health Report Highlights Anxiety, Obesity, and Addiction Challenges

Durham County Council received the Director of Public Health's Annual Report 2025, painting a picture of significant health challenges facing the region. The report, titled Healthier Futures: Our Ambitions and Actions, focuses on six key ambitions to reduce health inequalities. Read the full story here.

  • Key Ambitions: The report sets ambitious goals for the next 10 years, including reducing self-reported high anxiety to 10% or less, reducing obesity, reducing smoking, reducing alcohol-specific deaths by 20%, reducing under 18 conceptions by half, and increasing breastfeeding rates.
  • Adult Health Survey: The report includes findings from a large-scale adult health and wellbeing survey, providing a comprehensive dataset on the physical, emotional, social, and economic wellbeing of adults across County Durham.
  • Healthier and Happier Lives : Amanda Healey, Director of Public Health, stated that the council has an obligation to improve the health and well-being of our residents.

The report underscores the need for targeted action to address health inequalities and improve the overall wellbeing of County Durham residents.

Incinerator Project Sparks Debate Over Costs and Environmental Impact

Durham County Council debated a motion to withdraw from the Tees Valley Energy Recovery Facility (TVERF) project, a planned waste incinerator on Teesside. The motion, moved by Councillor Jonathan Elmer (Green Party), raised concerns about costs, environmental impact, and the potential to increase recycling rates. Read the full story here.

  • Financial Risks: Councillor Elmer argued that the contract with Viridor ties the council into guaranteeing a minimum tonnage of waste, regardless of recycling performance, and that the costs associated with the UK Emissions Trading Scheme have not been factored into the contract.
  • Environmental Concerns: Councillor Elmer also raised concerns about the impact of incinerators on the mental and physical health of local people.
  • Best Way Forward : Councillor Kyle Genner (Reform UK) argued that the TVERF is the best option available to the council, both financially and environmentally.
  • Motion Fails: The motion to withdraw from the TVERF project was ultimately defeated.

The debate highlights the complex challenges of waste management and the need to balance economic considerations with environmental concerns.

Other Matters

  • The council discussed the 2025-26 Mid-Year Treasury Management Report, which provides a summary of the council's treasury management position, borrowing activity, investment activity, and compliance with treasury management and prudential indicators as of 30 September 2025. Read the full story here.
  • The council agreed to appoint Councillors Susan Walker and John Hirst as non-voting co-opted Parish Council representatives on the Standards Committee. Read the full story here.
  • The council considered a motion calling on Durham County Council to help make sure that nobody in County Durham dies in poverty, by helping those living with a terminal illness and experiencing poverty. Read the full story here.
  • The council considered a motion recognising the contribution made by local farmers, growers, and the wider food and drink industry to the local economy, environment and rural communities. Read the full story here.
  • The council considered a Petition to reduce the speed limit on the A167 through Neville's Cross from 40mph to 30mph, citing concerns about road safety, noise and air pollution, and community severance. Read the full story here.
  • The Statutory Licensing Sub-Committee considered an application for the grant of a premises licence for Londis West Rainton, Chapel View, West Rainton, Houghton le Spring, DH4 6RS. Read the full story here.
  • The Charter Trustees for the City of Durham were scheduled to meet to discuss the external audit and to consider the budget and council tax precept for 2026/27. No video was provided. Read the full story here.
  • The Appeals and Complaints Sub-Committee met, but no video was provided. Read the full story here.
  • The Area Planning Committee (Central and East) meeting was cancelled. Read the full story here.

Upcoming Meetings

Here's a list of upcoming meetings, including their main topics:

Appeals and Complaints Sub-Committee CANCELLED

Appeals and Complaints Sub-Committee - Tuesday 27 January 2026 10.00 am

This meeting has been cancelled.

January 27, 2026, 10:00 am
Combined Fire Authority for County Durham and Darlington Audit and Finance Committee

Combined Fire Authority for County Durham and Darlington Audit and Finance Committee - Tuesday 27 January 2026 10.00 am

The Combined Fire Authority for County Durham and Darlington Audit and Finance Committee is scheduled to consider its financial position and future planning. The meeting's agenda includes a review of the audit completion report for the year ending March 2025, the statement of accounts for the same period, and the corporate risk register. Discussions are also planned regarding the forecast outturn for 2025/26, short-term investments and long-term borrowing, and the budget and medium-term financial plan for 2026/27.

January 27, 2026, 10:00 am
Combined Fire Authority for County Durham and Darlington Pension Board Committee

Combined Fire Authority for County Durham and Darlington Pension Board Committee - Monday 26 January 2026 2.00 pm

The Combined Fire Authority for County Durham and Darlington Pension Board Committee is scheduled to meet on Monday 26 January 2026. The meeting's agenda includes updates on pension matters, correspondence, and the authority's risk register. A significant portion of the meeting is expected to focus on the administration of various pension schemes and related regulatory updates.

January 26, 2026, 2:00 pm
County Durham Local Access Forum

County Durham Local Access Forum - Monday 26 January 2026 5.00 pm

The County Durham Local Access Forum is scheduled to discuss a range of issues concerning public access to land and rights of way across the county. Key topics include updates on major infrastructure projects like the A66 Northern Trans-Pennine Project, progress on walking and cycling routes, and the management of council-owned land. The forum will also receive presentations and updates on national and regional access initiatives, as well as local access partnerships.

January 26, 2026, 5:00 pm
Health and Wellbeing Board

Health and Wellbeing Board - Monday 26 January 2026 9.30 am

The Health and Wellbeing Board is scheduled to consider a range of reports covering mental health, child safeguarding, and the Better Care Fund. Key discussions are expected to focus on improving mental health services, reviewing annual safeguarding reports for children and adults, and assessing progress on integrated health and social care initiatives.

January 26, 2026, 9:30 am
Corporate Overview and Scrutiny Management Board

Corporate Overview and Scrutiny Management Board - Friday 23 January 2026 10.00 am

The Corporate Overview and Scrutiny Management Board is scheduled to meet on Friday 23 January 2026 to review the council's financial outturn for the second quarter of the 2025/26 financial year, examine performance management reports, and consider upcoming key decisions. The meeting will also discuss the provisional local government settlement for the Medium Term Financial Plan.

January 23, 2026, 10:00 am
Area Planning Committee (South and West) CANCELLED

Area Planning Committee (South and West) - Thursday 22 January 2026 1.00 pm

This meeting has been cancelled.

January 22, 2026, 1:00 pm
Cabinet

Cabinet - Wednesday 21 January 2026 10.00 am

The Cabinet of County Durham Council was scheduled to consider a range of important financial and policy matters. Key discussions were planned around the Medium Term Financial Plan, an update on Adult Social Care, and a review of the Housing Allocations Policy. The meeting also included consideration of the Corporate Peer Challenge Final Report and future partnering arrangements for Newcastle International Airport.

January 21, 2026, 10:00 am
Statutory Licensing Sub-Committee CANCELLED

Statutory Licensing Sub-Committee - Wednesday 21 January 2026 1.00 pm

This meeting has been cancelled.

January 21, 2026, 1:00 pm
Environment and Sustainable Communities Overview and Scrutiny Committee

Special Joint Meeting with Economy and Enterprise Overview and Scrutiny Committee, Environment and Sustainable Communities Overview and Scrutiny Committee - Tuesday 20 January 2026 1.30 pm

A joint meeting of the Environment and Sustainable Communities Overview and Scrutiny Committee and the Economy and Enterprise Overview and Scrutiny Committee was scheduled to discuss the progress and challenges of the Leisure Transformation Programme. The meeting's agenda included an update on the programme's delivery, key challenges encountered, and performance outcomes.

January 20, 2026, 1:30 pm
Central Durham Crematorium Joint Committee

Central Durham Crematorium Joint Committee - Wednesday 28 January 2026 5.00 pm

January 28, 2026, 5:00 pm
County Council

County Council - Wednesday 28 January 2026 10.00 am

January 28, 2026, 10:00 am
Charter Trustees for the City of Durham

Charter Trustees for the City of Durham - Wednesday 28 January 2026 11.30 am

January 28, 2026, 11:30 am
Area Planning Committee (North)

Area Planning Committee (North) - Thursday 29 January 2026 1.00 pm

January 29, 2026, 1:00 pm
Standards Assessment Board

Standards Assessment Board - Friday 30 January 2026 9.30 am

January 30, 2026, 9:30 am
Mountsett Crematorium Joint Committee

Mountsett Crematorium Joint Committee - Friday 30 January 2026 9.30 am

January 30, 2026, 9:30 am
Police and Crime Panel

Police and Crime Panel - Tuesday 3 February 2026 10.00 am

February 03, 2026, 10:00 am
County Planning Committee

County Planning Committee - Wednesday 4 February 2026 1.00 pm

February 04, 2026, 1:00 pm
Appeals and Complaints Sub-Committee

Appeals and Complaints Sub-Committee - Thursday 5 February 2026 10.00 am

February 05, 2026, 10:00 am
Statutory Licensing Sub-Committee

Statutory Licensing Sub-Committee - Friday 6 February 2026 10.00 am

February 06, 2026, 10:00 am