Residents give ‘mostly positive’ reaction to proposals to limit car access on Demesnes

PROPOSALS to limit cars to only a section of the Demesnes in Barnard Castle have been criticised by some but welcomed by others.

The proposal to fence off the bottom corner next to the entrance has been made by the town council after trouble with joy riders doing doughnuts and damaging the area. It would mean cars could still park next to the river but they would be prevented from roaming at will on the Demesnes.

The town council is poised to take over management of the Demesnes from Durham County Council. A public consultation was held at Woodleigh on Saturday.

Town councillors said most responses were positive.

Liz and Peter Colley who live nearby, were among those who attended.

Mrs Colley said: “It seems a sensible idea. My concern is people driving dangerously near the play area when my grandchildren are playing.”

Mr Colley agreed, adding that it sounded like a workable compromise. He said: “It will make it safer. I’ve seen cars going so close to children playing.”

However, one person whose property would be next to the area for cars was upset because she said it would mean more trouble next to her house. There have been complaints about antisocial behaviour in the past.

Another resident added: “We think it’s positive but we’re concerned for her.”

The option of erecting a 150m low-level fence would cost about £3,800 and would be funded by a grant through Durham County Council. Another proposal of creating a bank and ditch would cost £15,000 – a sum deemed too much.

Town councillor Rima Chatterjee said: “It’s a reasonable solution at a reasonable cost. Cars can still park down there but they’ll be limited.

At the end of the day we have to find a solution for the whole town because the Demesnes belongs to the whole town.”

Cllr Frank Harrison was also in favour, although he felt some anglers with mobility problems might be upset because some currently drive further down to access the river.

Cllr John Blissett added: “For me it’s about preserving what we’ve got.”

Comments from the consultation will be considered by the town council at a later date.