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Fire Authority: leadership, allowances, performance

This week in County Durham:

Fire Authority Faces Crucial Decisions on Leadership and Allowances

The Combined Fire Authority for County Durham and Darlington met on Friday 13 March 2026, with significant decisions on leadership appointments and financial frameworks on the agenda. The meeting was set to consider the appointment of a new Deputy Chief Fire Officer and review the Members' Allowances Scheme, impacting how the authority operates and is funded.

New Deputy Chief Fire Officer Appointment

A key item was the proposed appointment of Rob Cherrie to the substantive role of Deputy Chief Fire Officer (DCFO). This position became vacant in January 2026. An appointments panel had recommended Mr. Cherrie following a national recruitment process, with his proposed start date of 30 March 2026 contingent on the Authority's approval. This appointment is vital for the operational leadership of the fire service, ensuring continuity and strategic direction.

Members' Allowances Scheme Review

The Authority was also scheduled to review its Members' Allowances Scheme, which dictates the payments made to councillors serving on the Authority. This scheme, governed by The Local Authorities (Members' Allowances) (England) Regulations 2003, requires annual determination of basic allowances, special responsibility allowances, and travel and subsistence payments. The report proposed an increase of 3.8% to basic allowances and special responsibility allowances, aligning with inflation. Decisions on allowances directly affect the accessibility of public service, potentially influencing who can afford to serve as a councillor.

Audit and Finance Committee Updates

The meeting was also set to receive notes from the Audit and Finance Committee, including an update on the Statement of Accounts for the year ended 31 March 2025. This ensures financial transparency and accountability for public funds.

Correspondence on National Pay Reform

The Authority was to be updated on correspondence received, including a circular concerning National Joint Council Pay Reform within the fire and rescue service. This highlights the ongoing national discussions shaping the future of the fire service workforce.

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

Fire Service Performance Under the Microscope

The Combined Fire Authority for County Durham and Darlington Performance Committee met on Thursday 12 March 2026 to scrutinise the fire service's performance over the third quarter of the 2025/26 financial year. The committee reviewed a comprehensive performance report, letters of appreciation, and discussed formal complaints, offering a vital oversight function to ensure public safety and service effectiveness.

Performance Report Highlights and Concerns

The performance report detailed the fire service's activities across prevention, protection, and response. Key areas of focus included:

  • Prevention: Data on accidental dwelling fires, home fire safety visits, and the persistent issue of kitchen fires were discussed.
  • Protection: Performance in non-domestic premises, particularly fires in prisons linked to conventional vapes, was a concern. The rollout of anti-tamper vapes was noted as a potential mitigation measure.
  • Response: Response times for dwelling fires showed improvement, meeting targets. However, the availability of on-call appliances and vehicle accident rates were areas for attention.
  • Health and Safety: While accidents to personnel were low in the quarter, year-to-date figures were over target, as were vehicle accidents.

The report's findings are crucial for understanding where resources are most needed and where improvements can be made to better serve the community.

Community Feedback and Formal Complaints

The committee also reviewed letters of appreciation received by the service, offering insight into positive public perception of the fire crews' work. Conversely, a discussion on formal complaints, held in private, indicated a commitment to addressing any shortcomings in service delivery.

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

Pension Fund Investments Show Growth Amidst Regulatory Changes

The Pension Fund Committee met on Thursday 12 March 2026 to review the performance and management of the County Durham Pension Fund. The fund's value has grown to £4.074 billion, demonstrating positive investment returns. However, the meeting also addressed significant regulatory changes impacting the Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS).

Investment Performance and Value

The fund's value increased by £87 million in the quarter ending 31 December 2025. While fund managers held substantial cash balances, rebalancing activities and strategic withdrawals ensured the fund remained aligned with its targets. The committee reviewed performance against benchmarks, with a focus on long-term returns.

LGPS Reforms and Future Outlook

A key discussion point was the LGPS 'Fit for the Future' reforms, driven by the Pension Schemes Bill. These reforms formalise the requirement for administering authorities to work through a single pool, with Border to Coast Pensions Partnership (BCPP) playing a central role in investment implementation. The committee reviewed revised roles and responsibilities for various bodies, including the Pension Board and BCPP, and discussed the implementation timetable and associated risks.

The meeting also covered regulatory updates, including consultations on survivor pensions, death grants, and the implications of the McCloud judgement. These changes are vital for ensuring fairness and sustainability within the LGPS, impacting the retirement security of thousands of council employees.

Read more about the Pension Fund Committee meeting here.

Other Matters

Upcoming Meetings

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

New homes debated, vital services reviewed

This week in County Durham:

New Homes in Sacriston Face Scrutiny Over Infrastructure and Environmental Impact

Plans for a new development of 26 homes in Sacriston were on the table for the Area Planning Committee (North) on Thursday 26 February 2026. The proposal, submitted by NorthCountry Homes Limited, includes new access, landscaping, and infrastructure for the site located west of Fulforth Way.

The site, a former colliery field, presents challenges due to historical mining activities requiring land remediation. While not currently allocated for housing in the County Durham Plan, it is considered well-connected to the settlement. However, local residents have raised significant concerns, including the potential strain on existing dentist, GP, and school capacity, as well as increased traffic.

Crucially, the development's viability assessment indicates a shortfall of over £300,000 due to high remediation costs. This means the proposal does not include affordable homes or financial contributions towards local services like schools and GP surgeries, nor towards public open spaces. Officers, after independent scrutiny, agreed with this assessment.

The development would offer a mix of one to four-bedroom houses and aims to achieve a 10% Biodiversity Net Gain1 through on-site measures. The report also addressed highway safety, landscape impacts, drainage, and energy efficiency. Despite the concerns about infrastructure and the lack of affordable housing contributions, officers recommended approval, subject to a range of conditions covering everything from housing standards to construction management plans.

The decision highlights the delicate balance the council must strike between providing much-needed housing and ensuring that new developments do not overburden local services or negatively impact the environment, particularly for vulnerable residents who may rely heavily on these public amenities.

Read more about the Area Planning Committee (North) meeting here.

Audit Committee Gears Up for Key Reviews on Children in Care, Risk Management, and Fraud Prevention

The Audit Committee met on Friday 27 February 2026 to tackle a packed agenda covering critical areas of council operation. A significant focus was placed on the Looked After Children's Sufficiency Strategy, aiming to ensure adequate provision for children in care. This strategy is vital for safeguarding some of the county's most vulnerable young people, addressing sufficiency pressures that have intensified nationally. The presentation was expected to cover national and local trends, financial impacts, and the council's Durham Cares Approach Programme, underscoring the collective responsibility for children in care.

The committee also reviewed the Health, Safety and Wellbeing Performance Report for Quarter 3 of 2025-2026. While the report indicated a projected decrease in accidents, it noted specific incidents, including a RIDDOR-specified injury and several fire-related incidents. Maintaining a 92% compliance rate for health and safety audits is crucial for ensuring a safe working environment for council staff and the public.

Furthermore, the committee examined the Strategic Risk Management Progress Report, which identifies key risks facing the council. The updated Risk Management Policy and Strategy were also presented for approval, reinforcing the council's commitment to informed decision-making and performance.

In a move to bolster public trust and financial integrity, the committee was briefed on the Council's Counter Fraud and Corruption Strategy 2026-2030, the Corporate Fraud Response Plan, and the Anti-Money Laundering Policy. These measures are essential for protecting public funds and ensuring that council services are not exploited for illicit purposes. The Confidential Reporting Policy, or Whistleblowing policy, was also presented, encouraging employees to raise concerns without fear of reprisal.

Finally, the committee reviewed the Draft Internal Audit Plan 2026-2027 and discussed changes to the Code of Practice for Local Authorities and the Agreement of Accounting Policies for the 2025-26 Statement of Accounts. The Corporate Governance Review and Final Accounts Timetable were also noted, ensuring transparency and accountability in financial reporting.

Read more about the Audit Committee meeting here.

Safer Communities Committee Tackles Fire Service Planning and Probation Service Challenges

The Safer and Stronger Communities Overview and Scrutiny Committee met on Monday 23 February 2026 to discuss vital services impacting public safety. A key agenda item was the County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service's Community Risk Management Plan (CRMP) for 2026-2030. This four-year strategic document outlines how the service will address foreseeable risks through prevention, protection, and emergency response. The plan acknowledges significant financial pressures, including a shortfall in funding and rising inflation, necessitating the use of reserves. A 12-week public consultation was launched to gather community input on priorities such as emergency response, community safety, and supporting people.

The committee also received an update on probation services in County Durham. The Durham and Darlington Probation Delivery Unit (PDU) supervises a substantial caseload, with a significant proportion of individuals disclosing mental health concerns and a high percentage identified as domestic abuse perpetrators. The report highlighted areas for improvement, particularly in managing workloads and ensuring adequate staffing, following an Inadequate rating from Her Majesty's Inspectorate of Prisons (HMIP). Challenges ahead include implementing HMIP recommendations and potential caseload increases due to new legislation.

An update on Quarter Two 2025/26 performance management was also presented. Key messages for the committee included persistent reports of anti-social behaviour, though the upward trend was beginning to decline, and a concerning increase in road traffic fatalities and serious injuries. The report detailed performance indicators related to anti-social behaviour, fly-tipping, road safety, and the selective licensing scheme for private rented properties. These discussions are crucial for ensuring that residents feel safe and secure in their communities.

Read more about the Safer and Stronger Communities Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting here.

Other Matters

  • The Appeals and Complaints Sub-Committee meeting scheduled for Tuesday 24 February 2026 was cancelled.

Upcoming Meetings

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

  1. Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) is a requirement for new developments to improve biodiversity by at least 10% compared to the pre-development state. ↩

Council Tax Hike, Budget Cuts & Hospital Concerns

This week in County Durham:

Council Tax Hike Looms as Budget Pressures Mount

County Durham Council is facing difficult decisions as it prepares its budget for the upcoming financial year. A potential council tax increase is on the table, with councillors debating how to balance the books amidst significant financial pressures. The County Council met on Wednesday 18 February 2026 to discuss the Budget 2025/26 and the Medium Term Financial Plan (MTFP) 2026/27 to 2028/29.

The council is grappling with a projected budget deficit, and a key agenda item was the Council Tax Setting for 2026/27. Proposed savings totalling £12.941 million for the next year and £15.719 million over the MTFP period are being considered. These figures highlight the scale of the challenge in maintaining services while managing finances.

Councillor Kyle Genner put forward a motion to position County Durham as Britain's Industrial heartland, advocating for an economy first approach and exploring natural resources. However, an amendment from Councillor Elizabeth Scott sought to balance this with a commitment to clean energy and environmental sustainability. This debate underscores the tension between economic development and environmental protection, a recurring theme in local government discussions.

Meanwhile, Councillor Kenny Hope raised urgent concerns about the continued overnight closure of the Urgent Treatment Centre (UTC) at Shotley Bridge Hospital and the delay in capital funding for a new hospital. The motion called for the restoration of services and a clear plan for their future, highlighting the direct impact on residents' access to healthcare.

Read more about the County Council meeting here.

Planning Decisions: New Homes and Care Facilities Spark Debate

The Area Planning Committee (South and West) met on Thursday 19 February 2026 to consider several planning applications that will shape local communities. Decisions on new housing developments and the establishment of a children's home were at the forefront, with significant public interest and objections raised.

Children's Home Proposal Faces Local Opposition

A proposal to change the use of a property at 2 The Paddock, Toronto, Bishop Auckland, DL14 7SH into a care home for up to two children aged between 6 and 17 years was discussed. The application attracted 16 objections and a petition of approximately 200 signatures. Concerns raised by residents included the principle of the development, highway safety, the character of the area, and potential impacts on residential amenity and safeguarding. Despite these local concerns, statutory consultees raised no objections, subject to conditions. The application was brought before the committee due to public interest and a call-in by a ward member, Councillor Redmond.

Housing Developments in Leeholme and Shildon Under Scrutiny

The committee also considered plans for significant housing developments.

  • Leeholme: An application for 70 dwellings on land east of Buckingham Terrace, Leeholme, DL14 8JJ received 199 objections. Residents voiced concerns about infrastructure capacity, access to services, highway safety, flooding, contamination, and the impact on trees and wildlife. While consultees raised no objections, the Council's Tree Officer noted moderate harm due to tree loss. The report highlighted that the benefits of delivering housing, particularly given the council's current housing land supply, were considered to outweigh the identified harm. The recommendation was for approval, subject to conditions and a Section 106 agreement to secure contributions towards local services and infrastructure.
  • Shildon: A proposal for 50 affordable dwellings on land north of Redworth Business Park, Redworth Road, Shildon was also on the agenda. This application received 15 objections related to highway safety, landscape impact, infrastructure capacity, and residential amenity. Despite initial design concerns, amendments were made, and the recommendation was for approval, subject to conditions and a Section 106 agreement to secure 100% affordable housing, contributions to public open spaces, and educational facilities.

Staindrop Housing Proposal

A smaller development of 5 dwellings in Staindrop, west of 14 St Gregory Close, Staindrop, DL2 3LG, was also considered. This application faced 10 objections, including from the Parish Council and the CPRE, citing concerns about the principle of development, landscape impact, flooding, and infrastructure. The scheme was amended to reflect an edge-of-settlement farmstead development, and the recommendation was for approval, subject to conditions and a Section 106 agreement for biodiversity net gain and open space improvements.

Read more about the Area Planning Committee (South and West) meeting here.

Fire Authority Faces Budget Decisions and Community Risk Planning

The Combined Fire Authority for County Durham and Darlington met on Tuesday 17 February 2026 to discuss crucial financial matters and strategic planning for fire and rescue services. The meeting addressed the budget for 2026/27, including a proposed council tax increase, and the Community Risk Management Plan (CRMP) for 2026-2030.

Community Risk Management Plan: A Four-Year Strategy

A significant focus was placed on the proposed Community Risk Management Plan (CRMP) 2026-2030. This comprehensive plan outlines how the County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service (CDDFRS) will identify, manage, and respond to risks over the next four years. The plan details strategies across six key areas: Prevention, Protection, Response and Resilience, People, Finance and Resources, and Transformation and Digital.

The CRMP acknowledges the financial challenges facing the Service, including reduced government funding and limitations on council tax increases. It identifies 21 specific risks, from dwelling fires to cyber events, and outlines measures to address them. A public consultation on the draft CRMP was scheduled to begin on 18 February 2026, inviting feedback on priorities such as Emergency Response, Collaboration, Community Safety, and Supporting People.

Budget and Council Tax Increase

The Authority also considered its Budget 2026/27 and Medium-Term Financial Plan. The report indicated a projected decrease in government funding and recommended the use of reserves to balance the budget for 2026/27. The Audit and Finance Committee had previously recommended a 4.06% increase in council tax for 2026/27, equivalent to £5 for a Band D property. This proposed increase aims to help mitigate financial deficits and maintain service levels.

The meeting also reviewed the Pay Policy Statement 2026/27, which sets out the Authority's approach to remuneration for senior staff and the wider workforce, ensuring transparency and fairness.

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:

Council Tax Hike & Healthcare Concerns

This week in County Durham:

Council Tax Hike Looms as Budget Pressures Mount

County Durham Council is facing difficult decisions as it prepares its budget for the upcoming financial year. A potential council tax increase is on the table, with councillors debating how to balance the books amidst significant financial pressures. The County Council met on Wednesday 18 February 2026 to discuss the Budget 2025/26 and the Medium Term Financial Plan (MTFP) 2026/27 to 2028/29.

The council is grappling with a projected budget deficit, and a key agenda item was the Council Tax Setting for 2026/27. Proposed savings totalling £12.941 million for the next year and £15.719 million over the MTFP period are being considered. These figures highlight the scale of the challenge in maintaining services while managing finances.

Councillor Kyle Genner put forward a motion to position County Durham as Britain's Industrial heartland, advocating for an economy first approach and exploring natural resources. However, an amendment from Councillor Elizabeth Scott sought to balance this with a commitment to clean energy and environmental sustainability. This debate underscores the tension between economic development and environmental protection, a recurring theme in local government discussions.

Meanwhile, Councillor Kenny Hope raised urgent concerns about the continued overnight closure of the Urgent Treatment Centre (UTC) at Shotley Bridge Hospital and the delay in capital funding for a new hospital. The motion called for the restoration of services and a clear plan for their future, highlighting the direct impact on residents' access to healthcare.

Read more about the County Council meeting here.

Renewable Energy Plans Under Scrutiny as National Policy Shifts

The future of renewable energy development in County Durham was a key topic for the Environment and Sustainable Communities Overview and Scrutiny Committee and the Economy and Enterprise Overview and Scrutiny Committee on Wednesday 11 February 2026. The joint meeting discussed battery energy storage systems (BESS) and solar energy, considering their implications for the future County Durham Plan.

The national policy landscape is evolving, with the government's Clean Power 2030 Action Plan setting ambitious targets for solar and BESS capacity. The National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) is also being revised, with proposed changes giving substantial weight to renewable energy development. This national push for green energy could see more solar farms and battery storage facilities proposed across the county.

Locally, the council's existing policies and supplementary planning documents provide guidance on such developments. However, the report noted that six solar farm planning applications had been refused, with two later allowed on appeal. Inspectors cited the imperative to tackle climate change as a reason for overriding localised landscape harm. This suggests a potential conflict between local environmental concerns and national climate objectives.

The committees were asked to comment on how the new County Durham Plan should approach renewable energy development, acknowledging that local policies must align with national decision-making policies. This discussion is crucial for shaping how County Durham contributes to the UK's net-zero targets while managing local impacts.

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

Housing Development and Land Use on the Agenda for Area Planning Committee

The Area Planning Committee (Central and East) met on Tuesday 10 February 2026 to consider a range of planning applications that will shape local communities. Proposals for new housing developments and changes of use were on the table, with decisions impacting residents and the local environment.

Key applications included:

  • Bowburn: An outline application for up to 20 new dwellings, along with associated open space and infrastructure. Public concerns were raised regarding highway safety and the construction process.
  • Thornley: A full planning application for 22 new dwellings on land that is currently public open space. Objections from the public centred on the loss of open space, increased traffic, and the capacity of local services.
  • Trimdon Station: A proposal to change an agricultural barn into a residential dwelling. The council's Landscape Section raised concerns about the development undermining the open and rural character of the area.
  • Hesleden: An application for the change of use of agricultural land to two secure dog walking fields. While some of the land is Best and Most Versatile agricultural land, the proposal was considered to offer economic, social, and recreational benefits.
  • Durham: A variation of condition application for a Grade II Listed building, seeking to increase the height of a stone wall. While the council's Design and Conservation Section raised no objections, public concerns were noted regarding the impact on the heritage asset.

These applications demonstrate the council's role in balancing development needs with community concerns and environmental considerations.

Read more about the Area Planning Committee (Central and East) meeting here.

Other Matters

Upcoming Meetings

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

Council Tax Hike or Service Cuts? New Homes Decision

This week in County Durham:

Policing Precept Debate: Council Tax Hike or Service Cuts?

Residents of County Durham could see their council tax bills rise to fund policing services, as the Police and Crime Panel met to discuss the Police and Crime Commissioner's proposed precept for 2026/27. The panel considered two options for increasing the council tax contribution, with the ultimate decision having a direct impact on the resources available to tackle crime and support victims across the region.

The Police and Crime Commissioner's proposal includes a provisional government grant increase of £8 million, a 4.5% rise. However, this is not enough to cover rising costs, meaning a council tax increase is on the table.

  • Option 1: A £15 per annum increase for a Band D property, the maximum allowed by the government.
  • Option 2: An exceptional increase of up to £29 per annum for a Band D property, which requires Home Office approval. This option would fund a dedicated Criminal Exploitation Team and resources to combat anti-social behaviour linked to child exploitation.

Even with the maximum precept increase, financial deficits are forecast. The panel's decision will shape the future of policing priorities, including neighbourhood policing and road safety initiatives.

The panel also received an update on the fight against rural crime, detailing how Durham Constabulary is working with local communities to tackle issues like machinery theft, poaching, and fly-tipping. Furthermore, the work of the Commissioner's Victims' Champions was highlighted, showcasing their efforts to ensure victims' voices influence policy and services.

Read more about the Police and Crime Panel meeting here.

New Homes and Quarry Operations: County Planning Committee Weighs Development Decisions

The County Planning Committee met to consider two significant planning applications that will shape the landscape of County Durham. Proposals for 105 new homes in Thornley and the continued operation of a quarry in Old Quarrington, Durham, were on the agenda, with decisions impacting local communities and the environment.

In Thornley, a proposal for 105 new dwellings, including houses and bungalows, was discussed. While the development aims to regenerate a site currently used as poor-quality public open space, concerns were raised about increased traffic and the capacity of local services like dentists, GPs, and schools. Supporters, however, believe the development will help reduce anti-social behaviour.

Meanwhile, at Tarmac's quarry in Old Quarrington, the committee considered an application for the extraction of minerals and the importation of inert material for restoration purposes until 2042. The proposals aim to restore the quarry by 2044. Public objections centred on access, traffic, biodiversity, noise, and dust. However, consultees raised no objections, and the proposed restoration is expected to have a positive long-term environmental impact.

Read more about the County Planning Committee meeting here.

Licensing Review for Mother Mercy Postponed

A crucial meeting of the Statutory Licensing Sub-Committee, scheduled to consider a new premises licence for Mother Mercy at 19 Silver Street, Durham, has been cancelled. The application, which sought permission for the supply of alcohol, late-night refreshment, and the exhibition of films, had faced objections from Durham City Parish Council and the Environmental Health Authority due to concerns about crime, disorder, public safety, and nuisance. The meeting was also set to confirm minutes from previous sessions, including a review of a licence for CroBar in Barnard Castle.

Read more about the Statutory Licensing Sub-Committee meeting here.

Other Matters

Upcoming Meetings

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

Combined Fire Authority for County Durham and Darlington

Combined Fire Authority for County Durham and Darlington - Friday 13 March 2026 10.00 am

The Combined Fire Authority for County Durham and Darlington was scheduled to meet on Friday 13 March 2026 to discuss a range of matters including the appointment of a Deputy Chief Fire Officer, the Members' Allowances Scheme, and correspondence received by the authority. The meeting's agenda also included notes from the Audit and Finance Committee.

March 13, 2026, 10:00 am
Combined Fire Authority for County Durham and Darlington Audit and Finance Committee

Special, Combined Fire Authority for County Durham and Darlington Audit and Finance Committee - Friday 13 March 2026 11.00 am

The Combined Fire Authority for County Durham and Darlington Audit and Finance Committee was scheduled to meet on Friday 13 March 2026. The primary item on the agenda was the consideration of the Statement of Accounts for the year ended 31 March 2025.

March 13, 2026, 11:00 am
Combined Fire Authority for County Durham and Darlington Performance Committee

Combined Fire Authority for County Durham and Darlington Performance Committee - Thursday 12 March 2026 10.00 am

The Combined Fire Authority for County Durham and Darlington Performance Committee met on Thursday 12 March 2026. The meeting's agenda included a review of the third quarter's performance report for 2025/26, a summary of letters of appreciation received by the service, and a discussion on formal complaints.

March 12, 2026, 10:00 am
Pension Fund Committee

Pension Fund Committee - Thursday 12 March 2026 10.00 am

The Pension Fund Committee of Durham County Council met on Thursday 12 March 2026 to discuss the overall value and performance of the pension fund's investments. The meeting agenda also included reports on the pension fund's audit progress, internal audit plan, and accounting policies.

March 12, 2026, 10:00 am
Local Pension Board

Local Pension Board - Thursday, 12 March 2026 - 2.00 pm

The Local Pension Board of County Durham Council was scheduled to consider a range of pension-related matters, including updates on administration, regulatory changes, and the implementation of a significant reform programme. The board was also due to receive feedback from the Pension Fund Committee.

March 12, 2026, 2:00 pm
General Licensing and Registration Sub-Committee (3)

General Licensing and Registration Sub-Committee (3) - Wednesday, 11 March 2026 - 10.00 am

The General Licensing and Registration Sub-Committee (3) was scheduled to consider several applications for private hire and hackney carriage vehicle licences. The meeting was also set to review ongoing suitability of a private hire driver.

March 11, 2026, 10:00 am
Appeals and Complaints Sub-Committee

Appeals and Complaints Sub-Committee - Wednesday 11 March 2026 10.00 am

The Appeals and Complaints Sub-Committee of County Durham Council was scheduled to meet on Wednesday 11 March 2026. The meeting was set to consider an appeal from Resources, with discussions expected to cover the appeal hearing procedure and the statements of case from both the appellant and the hearing officer.

March 11, 2026, 10:00 am
Area Planning Committee (Central and East) CANCELLED

Area Planning Committee (Central and East) - Tuesday 10 March 2026 1.00 pm

This meeting has been cancelled.

March 10, 2026, 1:00 pm
Highways Committee CANCELLED

Highways Committee - Monday 9 March 2026 9.30 am

This meeting has been cancelled.

March 09, 2026, 9:30 am
Children and Young People's Overview and Scrutiny Committee

Children and Young People's Overview and Scrutiny Committee - Friday 6 March 2026 10.00 am

The Children and Young People's Overview and Scrutiny Committee of County Durham Council met on Friday 6 March 2026 to discuss school attendance and education outcomes. The meeting's report pack outlined scheduled discussions on the current state of school attendance across the county, including national and local data, policies, and collaborative efforts. Additionally, the committee was set to review the performance of schools in County Durham through Ofsted inspections and examine educational attainment data across various key stages.

March 06, 2026, 10:00 am
Adults, Wellbeing and Health Overview and Scrutiny Committee

Adults, Wellbeing and Health Overview and Scrutiny Committee - Monday 16 March 2026 9.30 am

The Adults, Wellbeing and Health Overview and Scrutiny Committee is scheduled to discuss the findings of a Care Quality Commission (CQC) inspection into Lanchester Medical Centre, alongside updates on Durham Mental Health Rehabilitation Services and County Durham and Darlington NHS Foundation Trust's Breast Services Review. The committee will also receive an update on Adult Social Care.

March 16, 2026, 9:30 am
Police and Crime Panel

Police and Crime Panel - Monday 16 March 2026 1.00 pm

The Police and Crime Panel is scheduled to meet on Monday 16 March 2026 to discuss a range of topics concerning policing and crime in County Durham and Darlington. The meeting's agenda includes a review of the Professional Standards Department's annual report, an update on firearms licensing, and a quarterly performance report from the Police and Crime Commissioner. Additionally, the panel will consider a report on police reform and the panel's work programme.

March 16, 2026, 1:00 pm
Standards Assessment Board

Standards Assessment Board - Tuesday 17 March 2026 1.00 pm

The Standards Assessment Board of Durham County Council is scheduled to consider a number of complaints received under the Code of Conduct for Members. The meeting will also include an update on ongoing complaints and a review of previously considered cases.

March 17, 2026, 1:00 pm
Statutory Licensing Sub-Committee CANCELLED

Statutory Licensing Sub-Committee - Wednesday 18 March 2026 1.00 pm

This meeting has been cancelled.

March 18, 2026, 1:00 pm
Cabinet

Cabinet - Wednesday, 18 March 2026 - 10.00 am

The County Durham Council Cabinet is scheduled to convene on Wednesday, 18 March 2026, with a packed agenda covering a range of significant local issues. Key discussions are expected to include an interim policy on houses in multiple occupation, the progress of the 'Pride in Place' regeneration programme, and an update on the council's financial performance and budget forecasts.

March 18, 2026, 10:00 am
Area Planning Committee (South and West) CANCELLED

Area Planning Committee (South and West) - Thursday 19 March 2026 1.00 pm

This meeting has been cancelled.

March 19, 2026, 1:00 pm
Appeals and Complaints Sub-Committee

Appeals and Complaints Sub-Committee - Friday 20 March 2026 10.00 am

We do not yet have a summary for this meeting. Since it is in the future, this may be because we have not yet processed it. Please check back later.

March 20, 2026, 10:00 am
Environment and Sustainable Communities Overview and Scrutiny Committee

Environment and Sustainable Communities Overview and Scrutiny Committee - Monday 23 March 2026 10.00 am

The Environment and Sustainable Communities Overview and Scrutiny Committee is scheduled to meet on Monday 23 March 2026 to discuss a range of environmental and community-focused topics. Key among these will be an update on district heating and heat networks across County Durham, alongside a review of the council's energy management and resources. The committee will also consider performance management reports and minutes from the County Durham Environment Partnership Board.

March 23, 2026, 10:00 am
Health and Wellbeing Board

Health and Wellbeing Board - Monday 23 March 2026 1.00 pm

The Health and Wellbeing Board is scheduled to discuss a range of important topics, including strategies for making County Durham smoke-free, updates on health and social care integration, and plans for the North East and North Cumbria Integrated Care Board. The Board will also review progress on the Better Care Fund and consider updates to the Adult Social Care Strategy.

March 23, 2026, 1:00 pm
Charter Trustees for the City of Durham

Charter Trustees for the City of Durham - Wednesday 25 March 2026 11.30 am

We do not yet have a summary for this meeting. Since it is in the future, this may be because we have not yet processed it. Please check back later.

March 25, 2026, 11:30 am