Study launched into state of Barnard Castle's streets (From The Advertiser Series)

Study launched into state of Barnard Castle's streets

11:00am Wednesday 31st October 2012 in News By Stuart Laundy, Reporter (Barnard Castle & Teesdale)

THE state of Barnard Castle's streets is to come under close scrutiny as part of efforts to make the town a more attractive place for both residents and visitors.

Everything from benches and bins to signs and interpretation boards will come under the microscope during the comprehensive street survey.

Volunteers are being sought to help with the study, one of several events which are being organised by the Heart of Teesdale Landscape Partnership on Saturday (November 3) as part of national Make a Difference Day.

Heart of Teesdale volunteering officer Honia Devlin explained: “The reason we are undertaking the survey is to find out what's there, what condition it is in, what needs to be done – if anything – to improve it and how it fits into the wider aspect of the area.

“For example, if there are benches that are used by the public, are they in a safe place and are in a good and usable condition?”

She said it was unlikely the survey would be completed in one go, but hoped work carried out this weekend would inspire some of the volunteers taking part to carry on with it. In the longer term, it is hoped findings from the survey will help make Barnard Castle a more attractive place for both residents and visitors.

Heart of Teesdale community development officer Sarah Smith added: “Knowing what is there will help other local groups, such as the town council, if there is any work that needs to be done.

“From a heritage point of view, there may be items we come across that people will be interested in.”

The survey starts at 10am on Saturday, November 10. Anyone interested in helping out should meet at Woodleigh, Flatts Road, Barnard Castle. Volunteers are also asked to bring a camera if they have one.

Helpers are also needed on Saturday to join the Heart of Teesdale group in planting 1,500 daffodils and 300 snowdrops at Scar Top, outside the castle, between 10am and noon, as well as carrying out a variety of tasks at the Garden of Remembrance, in Galgate, from 1pm. Gloves and tools will be provided.

Volunteering officer Kath Marshall-Ivens, who will be spearheading the bulb planting effort, said: “It is a chance for people to spend a small amount of time to help make a real difference to where they live and also find out about the volunteering opportunities with the heart of Teesdale.”

Anyone interested can just turn up on the day or contact Honia and Kath in advance on 03000-260830/260835.