Heighington Matters

This new route, linking Darlington, Heighington, School Aycliffe and Newton Aycliffe is welcomed by all. For too many years access to the shops, the doctor’s surgery and to friends living in Newton Aycliffe has been very difficult for many living in the Parish. Letters of complaint have been made to me over the years, particularly from parents and students living in the Chestnuts who had a difficult walk early in the morning up to Heighington during the cold, dark morning, winter days, in order for them to pick up the Number 1 bus to drive them into Darlington for their college lessons starting at 9am. I extend my thanks to everyone who has contacted me over the years about this problem. It has taken me a long time to feed your concerns into the Council and the TVCA but, at long last, they have acted – my personal thanks to both.

Residents living in Hopelands must despair at the time it has taken to have the parking bays built. A lot of consultation over the years have taken place and I thank all Hopelands residents for taking part. The Project seems to be riddled with problems with the latest finding services under the ground which would make building the new parking bays in the agreed locations too expensive. So, I’m back to square one. I’ve asked DBC to complete a survey in the original area earmarked a few years ago which is the land on the right side of the road as you enter Hopelands from Highside Road.

The survey has been completed. The land is clear, so the council will determine costs which will include the £15,500 that I applied for from Bellways.

Many of you will know of the concerns about speeding in Heighington, particularly on Millbank, Hopelands and the surrounding streets. These have been raised by me for well over twenty years. These concerns have come from parents, residents, school staff and elderly neighbours who use these roads every day.

The Council is now preparing the next phase of 20mph schemes across the Borough. Two senior officers will decide which areas are included, with recommendations expected in spring 2027 and new limits introduced in 2028.

Over the years I have met repeatedly with Highways Officers and the Police to highlight the risks and to put forward practical ideas to slow traffic and improve safety. Although the issues have always been recognised, no changes to the road network have yet been made.

Recently I met again with Officers and a Cabinet Member to stress how important it is for Heighington to be included this time. I have followed this up with a formal letter to the two officers responsible for selecting the next areas to move to 20mph.

I want residents to know that the case for Heighington has been made clearly, firmly and with evidence gathered over many years. I now await their decision, and I remain hopeful that Heighington will finally receive the long needed support to make Millbank, and the areas around our school entry points, safer for children, families and older residents.

1) Stationing of caravans and utility blocks – refused on 30th September 2025 and is currently at Appeal to the Planning Inspectorate.

2) 28 chalets and managers office – application is still pending consideration – awaiting technical reports from the applicant

3) A planning app has been submitted following the occupation of the site. It has gone through validation and awaiting technical reports from the applicant.

Councillor Gerald Lee,

Heighington & Coniscliffe Ward.