CONCERNS about the state of verges to greens in two dale villages have been raised.
In Gainford, parish councillors were alerted to the problem by a letter from a resident, who highlighted the condition of the green at the junction with Waters End, which they said was particularly worn.
This led to a discussion at this month’s parish council meeting as to what action could be taken.
Clerk Martin Clark said the resident had pointed to the number of cars being parked on the green verge as the reason for the poor condition.
Cllr Maire Kennan said: “If the edges of the green need to be seen to, is that something we need to look at?
“Do we just let it continue or do we do something about it?”
Cllr Simon Platten added: “Are we happy to just keep fixing it or do we want to prevent cars going on that corner with stones or a post?”
Mr Clark explained that while the village green is owned by Raby Estates, the parish council is responsible for its management.
The meeting was told other parts of the verges also suffered due to the number of cars parking around the green.
One problem was the number of cars looking for a space on a Sunday morning when the village football team is playing home games.
Meanwhile, in Staindrop, parish councillors had written to officials at the Scarth Hall asking that all users and those visiting events should respect the village green parking restrictions.
Clerk Judith Mashiter said in response, new booking conditions had taken effect at Scarth Hall on January 1.
“They include a clause asking hirers to do their utmost to ensure users park appropriately and with consideration for others.”
Ms Mashiter said the Scarth Hall trustees had stated they “shared the parish council’s concerns about preservation of the greens and encroachment being discouraged” .
In common with Gainford, the green is part of Raby Estates and managed by the parish council.
