Minutes:
Councillor A Hopgood, Leader of the Council reminded Members that this was the last full Council before the summer recess and, while she was sure all Members were all looking forward to a break, the next six weeks could be a difficult time for many families.
Keeping children entertained could be a challenge at the best of times, and Councillor Hopgood reminded Members of the many events and activities taking place across the county to support families over the coming weeks.
The council’s Fun and Food programme offered free holiday activities with healthy food for children and young people. Sessions were hosted by schools and voluntary groups, as well as services from across the council.
Children and young people aged 18 and under could take advantage of free-swimming sessions at all of the council’s leisure centres throughout every school holiday.
There would also be a wide range of low-cost family friendly activities running throughout the summer at various venues, from libraries and parks to locations such as Killhope Lead Mining Museum.
Finally, there would be lots of free family entertainment at Seaham Food Festival, which took place on Saturday 5 and Sunday 6 August. With a stunning coastline as the backdrop, there was also the opportunity to enjoy the beach as well.
Councillor Hopgood hoped all Members would be able to share this information with residents and advise them that details were available on the council’s website and wished all Members a restful recess.
Councillor C Marshall thanked the Leader for her report and asked the Leader if she could give some reassurance around the proposed new leisure facilities in Seaham and Chester le Street. The Leader replied that a report would be brought to Cabinet in the autumn. The facilities were always proposed as being part of phase two which had been agreed under the previous administration. All Members were welcome to attend meetings of Cabinet and ask questions.