The Police and Crime Panel of County Durham Council is scheduled to meet on Monday 8 June 2026. The agenda includes a review of the Police and Crime Commissioner's performance and plans. Discussions are anticipated to cover the Joint Independent Audit Committee's annual report, the Commissioner's quarterly performance, and a new youth-focused Police, Crime and Justice Plan. The Panel is also expected to receive updates on a telecommunications mast, complaints received, and the Panel's work programme for the upcoming year.

Joint Independent Audit Committee Annual Report

The Panel is scheduled to consider the Joint Independent Audit Committee's (JIAC) Annual Report for 2025/26. This report provides an independent overview of the work undertaken by the JIAC, highlighting key areas of assurance and concern. The report is expected to cover the Committee's oversight of governance, risk management, internal control, financial reporting, and audit arrangements across the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner (OPCC) and Durham Constabulary. Key issues for the year are anticipated to include findings from the HMICFRS Integrity Inspection, the recovery of audit assurance, internal audit findings, and financial sustainability pressures. The Committee's focus for the following year is also to be outlined, including the delivery of HMICFRS improvement plans and strengthening value for money oversight.

Quarterly Performance Report Quarter Four 2025/26

A report detailing the Police and Crime Commissioner's performance for the fourth quarter of 2025/26 is scheduled for review. This report provides an update on the progress made against the priorities set out in the Police, Crime and Justice Plan 2025-29. Key areas covered are expected to include supporting victims, ensuring safer people and places, neighbourhood policing, rural safety, road safety, criminal justice, force staffing levels, community engagement, and HMICFRS inspections. The report is anticipated to highlight achievements such as significant reductions in average 999 call answer times and increased police visibility in hotspot communities. It is also expected to address challenges, including increases in serious violence offences and other sexual offences.

PCC Children and Young People's Police, Crime and Justice Plan 2026–28

The Panel is to be presented with the development process and key priorities of the Police and Crime Commissioner's (PCC) Children and Young People's Police, Crime and Justice Plan for 2026–28. This plan, developed through extensive consultation with young people across County Durham and Darlington, aims to address issues identified as priorities by the youth population. Key themes emerging from the consultation are expected to include road safety, community safety, anti-social behaviour, and access to diversionary activities. The plan outlines six priority areas: Safer, More Resilient Young People; Safer Communities; Safer Countryside; Safer Roads, Safer Choices; Young Victims; and Youth in the Justice System. The report is expected to detail the actions and approach to be followed to deliver the plan, including a focus on intelligence-led, data-driven, partnership, and problem-solving strategies.

Update on Telecommunications Mast

An update is scheduled regarding the former telecommunications mast located at the old Police Headquarters at Aykley Heads. This item follows media attention and interest from the Parish Council regarding the potential re-erection of the mast. The report is expected to detail the history of the mast, its statutory protection as a Grade II listed building, and the complexities and costs associated with its dismantling and potential re-erection. Discussions with Durham County Council Planning Department, potential funding options, and the ongoing work to identify feasible solutions and potential locations are to be outlined. The significant costs involved, estimated in the region of £2-3 million for re-erection, and the impact on police budgets are also anticipated to be discussed.

Complaints Update

The Panel is to receive an update on formal complaints received regarding the Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) or the Deputy PCC since the previous meeting. This report, in line with the Panel's procedure for handling such complaints, will detail the number of complaints received and any that may have been rejected without consideration by the Panel. The report is expected to confirm whether any new complaints have been lodged since the last meeting on 16 March 2026.

Police and Crime Panel Work Programme 2026/27

A draft Work Programme for the Police and Crime Panel for the 2026/27 municipal year is scheduled for consideration. This programme is designed to be flexible and allows the Panel to plan its scrutiny activities, focusing on key responsibilities such as reviewing the draft Police and Crime Plan and precept, scrutinising the PCC's annual report, and holding confirmation hearings for key appointments. The draft programme is expected to include items carried over from the previous year, such as updates on HMICFRS Integrity Inspection outcomes and the benefits realisation of the Investigative Hub, alongside new items as they emerge. The potential for special meetings or informal briefings to discuss significant developments, such as proposed police reforms and the abolition of PCCs, is also to be noted.