THE public will be asked how they want a play park to be revamped in Barnard Castle.
In a parting shot before handing over the running of The Demesnes to Barnard Castle Town Council, officials at Durham County Council are planning a makeover of the children’s area.
A public consultation will take place at St Mary’s Primary School, on Wednesday, September 18, at 3pm. However, the timing has upset some parents.
One said: “Having it at 3pm is inappropriate as most parents and children won’t be able to get there at that time -“they’ll be on the school run.
“It’s disappointing that they have decided to sideline 95 per cent of children and parents in Barnard Castle in this way.”
The event was announced on social media by Barnard Castle Town Council.
However, Michael King, town clerk, said the event is being organised by Durham County Council.
He said: “The town council is being kept informed, but is not part of the management of the scheme. We were informed of the date, time and venue on Friday last week and advertised it straightaway. We have not been able to influence it. Representatives of the town council will, though, attend.”
A spokesman from Durham County Council
Meanwhile, the town council has approved its first event on The Demesnes – the annual bonfire and fireworks display which will take place on November 2. But Cllr Frank Harrison asked: “Can we make sure that no tyres are burnt this year? They have been in previous years.”
Cllr Sandra Moorhosue replied, telling him this did not happen last year.
Cllr John Blissett added: “We also need to ensure local residents with horses are aware so there will not be the palaver that we had last year.” The display last year led to complaints from a horse owner about noise affecting his animals.
Cllr Moorhouse explained that when the display was organised, residents had been consulted and had agreed to it. She said: “There’s not a lot we can do if we get an agreement in place and then afterwards they said it’s not right. It was extremely well run and a very good event for the town.”
