WORK to improve security at a Barnard Castle beauty spot has left a “gaping hole” which could be exploited by illegal campers.
Vince Blaeford has been campaigning for more than a year to plug the gap in what he says is work at the lower Demesnes that “doesn’t meet the brief”.
Problems came to a head in 2021 when a private security firm was brought in to patrol the area after an illegal encampment by travellers heading to Appleby.
After consultations with residents, a new gate with a height restrictor was installed as well as new bollards to prevent access onto the Demesnes and birds’ mouth fencing.
A formal car park was established bounded by black railings.
The work was carried out by Barnard Castle Town Council, which took over responsibility for the Demesnes from Durham County Council in 2019.
Mr Blaeford, who lives opposite the Demesnes, said despite the new measures, those wishing to illegally access the ground could do so due to the removal of wooden posts on an adjacent track that provides access to an informal parking area used by residents.
Mr Blaeford said: “There has been some work done, but it doesn’t meet the brief.”
“There is a retractable bollard and it’s been there for years but it hasn’t worked for years,” he added.
“Without the gateposts either side even if it did work, vehicles can now get around it.”
The 77-year-old added: “I have been trying to get progress on this for a year. I have written letters to the town council and to the county council and have also emailed Cllr Richard Bell.
“He has said they are unable to do anything as the road is unadopted and it’s a question of ownership.
“In the past I have had caravans parked right outside my home. I was actually threatened.
“It is so frustrating because whatever it [the work] cost there is a large proportion that has been wasted and we still have a situation where travellers could park up.”
A spokesperson for Durham County Council said other than providing money to fund the work, the authority did not have any involvement with the measures.
Barnard Castle Town Council was contacted for comment.
After contacting Cllr Bell, Mr Blaeford said a surveyor from Durham County Council will be carrying out a site visit on Friday.
