Bill Edgar

1 day ago | thenorthernecho.co.uk | Bill Edgar

Darlington Borough Council is considering introducing smoke-free zones outside pubs, bars and restaurants throughout the town centre. (Image: Stuart Boulton) A council has been warned a smoking ban in Darlington’s outdoor seating areas could impact local trade. Darlington Borough Council is considering introducing smoke-free zones outside pubs, bars and restaurants throughout the town centre.

1 day ago | thenorthernecho.co.uk | Bill Edgar

County Durham’s political future is hanging in the balance. The previous local election in 2021 is etched in history as the first time the Labour Party lost overall control of Durham County Council in 100 years.   But this year’s return to the polls for voters across County Durham could prove even more seismic for the main political parties and the region’s future. Durham County Council is responsible for housing, education, social care, rubbish collection, and fixing roads.

1 day ago | thenorthernecho.co.uk | Bill Edgar

Leading Independent councillors in County Durham have vowed to put “people before politics” and represent the views of residents ahead of May’s local election. John Shuttleworth and Alan Shield are among four Independent cabinet members on Durham County Council and hope to improve their presence in the council chamber at next month’s poll. The non-aligned members say they have helped improve residents’ lives by acting in their interests and representing their communities' views at County Hall.

1 day ago | thenorthernecho.co.uk | Bill Edgar

Conservative Councillor Richard Bell (second left) has worked with cross-party members to manage Durham County Council since 2021. (Image: Sarah Caldecott)) County Durham Conservatives have praised the party’s work as part of a coalition managing Durham County Council and warned voting for Labour would “turn back the clock” and undo four years of progress.

5 days ago | thenorthernecho.co.uk | Bill Edgar

Caroline Todd, foodbank manager at King’s Church, in Darlington. (Image: Sarah Caldecott) “We are still open and here for you”. That is the impassioned message Caroline Todd hopes people living in Darlington will hear loud and clear. The foodbank manager at King’s Church in the town spent the early part of the week readjusting the service’s operation after announcing it has significantly reduced its operating hours.