Lib Dem county councillors  Mark Wilkes and Rev Crooks have applauded the decision to build 21 affordable homes in Bearpark. The homes, part of government funding for the first council houses to be built for many years are to be built on land which was formerly part of the Bearpark Colliery site. Councillor Wilkes commented : 

“We have been in negotiations with council officers for many months now to ensure that as many of the proposed new homes as possible are built in Bearpark. Originally we were only going to get eight houses in the division and even that wasn’t secure. I am delighted at the outcome.  These will be high quality, efficient, two and three bedroom family homes with gardens – just what we need.”

“We have long waiting lists in Bearpark for housing and we have asked wherever possible for people within the village to be considered so that we can make sure local residents benefit.”

Fellow Councillor Rev Crooks added “ Mark and I have put a lot of work in to ensure that these homes are built in Bearpark.  Bearpark residents have been crying out for homes and I am always being contacted about waiting lists.  At the same time as this we have been working on a scheme which we expect to provide new play facilities for the village. I  know that by working with all parties involved we are really improving Bearpark for the better.”

Mark went on to say “The changes to regulations so that councils can build new council homes is a policy which the Lib Dems have been pushing for many years now.”

Councillor Crooks added “In the last year we have secured the building of council and social housing in Framwellgate Moor, Witton Gilbert and Bearpark, proving that hard work really does pay off.  We will continue to work hard to bring down housing waiting lists in our area..“