Views sought on 5 Reform priorities in County Durham

Reform leaders in charge of Durham County Council will rewrite the local authority’s Council Plan, which was recently agreed by the previous administration, because it “no longer reflects the political priorities of this council.” 

The party has revealed five key ambitions that members say better align with its political mandate. 

Reform’s priorities

• Reforming the council to make it an efficient, effective servant of the people, ensuring taxpayers’ money is spent wisely and well.

• Supercharging the economy to make County Durham the best place in the north east to do business.

• Building better communities to ensure a connected, safe, clean and thriving place to live.

• Caring for people and supporting those who need it.

• A practical rather than ideological environmental stewardship.

Council Leader Andrew Husband said: “Following the recent local elections and overwhelming political mandate provided to this new administration, we have been focused on delivering the change that people voted for.”

The new plan will help reset the local authority’s priorities and clearly sets out its objectives, Reform added. A review of all council spending will also be undertaken. 

Cllr Husband added: “This clarity of purpose is critical as we develop our transformation plans and work with our Department of Local Government Efficiency (DOGE) to deliver value for money. 

“This administration will focus on practical outcomes that residents can understand, see, and value. It will enable common sense governance that enables value for money as well as efficient decision making that gets things done.”

Consultation will take place between Tuesday, July 22, and Monday, August 18. A final decision is due to be made in October.

Reform UK made history in the county in the recent local election to gain control of the local authority by holding 63 of the 98 available seats. 

The council’s climate emergency was recently rescinded by Reform in favour of a ‘County Durham care emergency’, which instead focuses on shortfalls within the Special educational needs and disability (SEND) sector. 

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Supporting the updated council proposal, deputy leader Darren Grimes told a cabinet meeting: “The emerging priorities are now a reflection of our political will. The framework we are considering sets out the actions that we will lead on and take forward. It focuses on the things that make a difference to the people and businesses of County Durham. 

“The report provides the interim guidance needed regarding the will of the new administration until a new Council Plan can be consulted upon and agreed by council in October. 

“The consultation period proposed will ensure that our plans are further developed by listening to the views of our communities and local businesses.”