Agenda item

The Chief Finance Officer presented a report on the former telecommunications mast formerly located on the site of the old police headquarters which included a chronology of the main issues of the mast from the period 2011 to 2023 and related governance issues (for copy see file of minutes).

Mr Rodiss expressed disappointment at the current state of the Grade II listed building which had not been relocated on the new headquarters’ site, in line with the original planning obligation. The Chief Finance Officer explained that the proceeds from the sale of the land were used to fund investment in IT and fleet, that there had been no requirement to set money aside.  Mr Rodiss asked whether Mr Ridley’s dual role as Chief Finance Officer to the PCC and Assistant Chief Officer of Durham Constabulary was a governance risk. The Chief Finance Officer responded that the dual role is widely accepted and a number of individuals carry out the dual role across the country, adding that independent safeguards are in place. 

Councillor Potts expressed his concern with regard to outstanding breaches of planning conditions which could lead to enforcement action in the future. 

The Monitoring Officer and Clerk to the Police and Crime Panel reminded Members that the planning process was ongoing and at this stage there is no enforcement action or any criminal offences made out. 

The Head of Estates clarified that advice from planning consultants was that the mast could not be delisted and an application for demolition should be made which was subsequently refused by the County Planning Committee at a meeting held in February.  However, there are ongoing discussions with Development Control regarding the options available. 

Resolved:

That the report be noted.