The Durham County Council met on Wednesday 28 January 2026 to discuss a range of important issues, including the adoption of the Startforth Neighbourhood Plan, proposed changes to the Local Council Tax Reduction Scheme, and the updated Local Code of Corporate Governance. The council also received an update on the work of its Overview and Scrutiny committees.

Adoption of the Startforth Neighbourhood Plan

The council formally adopted the Startforth Neighbourhood Plan, making it part of the statutory development plan for the area. This plan, which was overwhelmingly approved by residents in a referendum on 18 December 2025, introduces policies for a settlement boundary for Startforth Village, designates local green spaces, identifies valued views, and aims to protect important community facilities. The plan was developed in accordance with the Localism Act 2011 and the Neighbourhood Planning (General) Regulations 2012.

Local Council Tax Reduction Scheme Changes

Significant changes were approved for the Local Council Tax Reduction (CTR) scheme for working-age residents, effective from 1 April 2026. The scheme will move to an income-banded model, with the maximum support level capped at 90%. This means all working-age residents will be liable for at least 10% of their council tax. The changes also include the cessation of the Second Adult Rebate (2AR), a standard deduction of £10 per week for each non-dependant, and a reduction in the maximum capital limit from £16,000 to £10,000. Protection for uncapped support of up to 100% will be maintained for claimants with a terminal diagnosis. These changes are projected to generate an additional £2.2 million in council tax income for the council and aim to simplify administration and ensure all working-age residents contribute to council services. The decision followed extensive public consultation and debate, including an amendment to retain the 100% cap, which was ultimately lost.

Updated Local Code of Corporate Governance

The council approved an updated Local Code of Corporate Governance (LCoCG). This code is a public statement outlining the council's commitment to maintaining effective corporate governance arrangements, built on the seven principles of good governance developed by CIPFA and SOLACE. The updated code reflects changes made during the 2024/25 annual governance review and aims to ensure ethical leadership, transparency, and continuous improvement. The Audit Committee had previously considered and approved the revised code.

Overview and Scrutiny Six-Monthly Update

An update was provided on the activities of the council's Overview and Scrutiny committees for the period June to November 2025. The Corporate Overview and Scrutiny Management Board (COSMB) has been involved in reviewing the Medium Term Financial Plan (MTFP) and the development of the new Council Plan 2025-2030. The Adults, Wellbeing and Health OSC commented on the draft Pharmaceutical Needs Assessment and reviewed the CQC assessment of Adult Social Care. The Children and Young People OSC received updates on Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), Home to School Transport Services, and child poverty. The Economy and Enterprise OSC considered updates on the Selective Licensing Scheme and Strategic Place Plans (SPPs), and held a joint meeting on fuel poverty. The Environment and Sustainable Communities OSC received updates on the Green Corridor project, the Local Nature Recovery Strategy and Biodiversity for Net Gain, and the management of council woodlands, parks, and amenity land. The Safer and Stronger Communities OSC reviewed road safety initiatives, progress on the Combatting Drugs and Alcohol Programme, and the evaluation of Operation Trailblazer and anti-social behaviour initiatives.

Appointment of Independent Members to the Independent Remuneration Panel

The council agreed to reappoint Joyce Drummond-Hill and Raymond Morris to the Independent Remuneration Panel and appointed Claire Bailey, Paul Burdon, and Clement O'Donovan. These appointments are for a four-year period from 2026 to 2030, bringing the panel to five members. Authority was delegated to the Corporate Director of Resources to recruit to any future vacancies.

Presentation to Honorary Aldermen / Alderwoman

The council formally conferred the title of Honorary Alderman / Alderwoman on several former councillors who were not already in receipt of the title and had indicated their willingness to accept it.

Leader's Report

Councillor Amanda Hopgood, Leader of the Council, presented her report, which included thanks to John Pearce, the Corporate Director of Children and Young Peoples Services, for his service to the council.

Questions from the Public

Two questions were received from the public regarding the TV ERF contract. Ms. Fotheringham questioned why Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS) costs were not included in the contract gate fee price, and Mr. McArdle raised concerns about the council minimising exposure to risks associated with long-term waste disposal contracts, such as overcapacity and index-linked gate fees. Councillor Kyle Genner, Cabinet Portfolio Holder for Neighbourhood, Environment and Police Relations, responded to both questions, explaining the government's consultation on the ETS and the council's confidence in avoiding overcapacity due to landfill taxes and housing growth targets. He also highlighted the substantial savings and protections offered by the current TV ERF contract compared to previous options.

Petitions

A petition was presented requesting a reduction in the speed limit on the A167 through Neville's Cross from 40mph to 30mph. Susan Walker, Chair of Neville's Cross Community Association, presented the petition, citing safety concerns for residents, schools, and pedestrians, and referencing national guidance supporting lower speed limits in built-up areas. Councillor Tim McGuinness, Cabinet Portfolio Holder for Rural Communities and Highways, acknowledged the petition and stated that the 40mph limit was considered safe and adhered to guidelines, but offered to discuss alternative safety arrangements.

Motions on Notice

Councillor Kyle Genner moved a motion to reverse Durham's decline and position the county as the Industrial heartland of Britain, advocating for an economy first approach and resource and energy exploration. This motion was debated, with arguments focusing on economic regeneration and the pragmatic protection of the natural environment.

Councillor Kenny Hope moved a motion expressing concern over the continued overnight closure of the UTC at Shotley Bridge Hospital and the delay in building a new hospital. The motion called for the restoration of overnight UTC provision, a time-bound recovery plan, and the release of capital funding for the new hospital. It also requested an in-person public meeting with residents and formal letters to the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care and NHS leadership.

Councillor Michael Wilkes moved an amendment to the Local Council Tax Reduction Scheme proposals to retain the 100% cap on support, arguing that taxing those with no money was immoral. This amendment was lost.

Councillor Charles Martin moved a second amendment to the Local Council Tax Reduction Scheme, which was also lost.

Councillor Chris Foote-Wood moved a motion calling on the council to ensure no one dies in poverty by reviewing Council Tax Support schemes for those with a terminal illness, considering them a priority for discretionary support, and encouraging councillors to donate to charities supporting the terminally ill. Councillor Foote-Wood withdrew his motion after it was confirmed that the first two points had been addressed in an earlier report and that the council was looking at a new Poverty Strategy.

Councillor Tim McGuinness moved a motion recognising the contribution of local farmers and the food and drink industry, committing to sourcing local food where possible, and encouraging residents to shop locally. This motion was unanimously agreed.

Questions from Members

Councillor Michael Wilkes questioned Councillor Tim McGuinness, Cabinet Portfolio Holder for Rural Communities and Highways, regarding a proposed 40% hike in resident permit parking charges. Councillor McGuinness clarified that the increase was a proposal within the Medium-Term Financial Plan for 2026/27 onwards, representing the first increase since 2015 and being below the rate of inflation. He stated that the matter was subject to consultation.

Appointment of Chairs/Vice-Chairs of Committees/Sub-Committees

Appointments were made to various committee positions, including Councillor Jasmine Fox as Chair of the Area Planning Committee (South and West), Councillor Tom Redmond as Chair of the Audit Committee, and Councillor Matt Burnard as Chair of the General Licensing and Registration Sub Committee's and Vice-Chair of the Statutory Licensing Committee.

Report from the Cabinet

The council noted a report from the Cabinet detailing issues considered at its meetings on 17 December 2025, including the Poverty Strategy 2026/2030 and the 2025-26 Quarter Two Forecast Outturn for the Revenue Budget, Capital Budgets, Collection Fund and Treasury Management. The Cabinet also agreed recommendations regarding the former Council Offices / Customer Access Point building in Stanley Front Street.

Mid-Year Review Report on Treasury Management

The council noted a report on the treasury management position for the period ending 30 September 2025, which detailed borrowing and investment activities and compliance with the Treasury Management Strategy. Councillor Tom Redmond, Vice Chair of the Audit Committee, confirmed the committee's satisfaction with the report.