One year on – and damage to Barnard Castle's Market Cross has not been fixed

A YEAR after being whacked by a HGV, the Market Cross in Barnard Castle has still not been fixed.

The damage happened last August on the Newgate side of the iconic monument. One Barnard Castle resident said: “I’ve taken two pictures a year apart and the damage is still there. I wouldn’t be surprised if the water has got in and caused rot.”

Oliver Sherratt, Durham County Council’s head of direct services, said: “Emergency roofing and guttering repairs were carried out following the incident back in September 2016, in order to safeguard the building from further damage. 

However, permanent repairs were postponed as consideration was given to obtaining external funding for a larger scheme to improve the building and this would include the cost of the permanent repairs.

“Unfortunately, this has not come to pass and so our building, highways and conservation teams are currently in discussions and the repairs should progress in the near future.”

Last Tuesday, motorists were held up on the Abbey Bridge, near Egglestone Abbey, after two lorries became stuck on the narrow bend up the hill. Another lorry had to be given instructions by a pedestrian to get round the Market Cross after misjudging the turn on the previous day.