Outdoor gym row after 'show and tell' consultation

Council plans for outdoor gym equipment have caused outrage as a consultation event has been branded a "farce".

The proposals are part of the redevelopment of the former Elvet bowling green near Durham city centre and designs were displayed during a drop-in session at the site on Tuesday.

But residents and parish councillors said the event was a "show and tell" and people wanted a play area for young children instead.

Durham County Council said current plans included a children's obstacle course and Tuesday's session was "just the start of the engagement process".

According to the plans, the equipment would be suitable for cardio, strength exercises and cross-training.

The local authority said designs featured wheelchair-accessible surfaces, low-resistance machines and equipment suitable for seated use.

"We want your views on what type of equipment we should install from a variety of options," the project's website added.

Resident Steve Lindsay said gym equipment was not what the community wanted and there were enough sporting facilities in the city already.

"It wasn't a consultation," he said of Tuesday's event.

"It was a show and tell where the councillors show you a plan and tell you to approve it.

"The only changes you could possibly have is what colour is the gym equipment."

But Mark Bell, manager of Durham Amateur Rowing Club, said the club supported the plans.

"The type of equipment they're proposing to install would be beneficial to our members," Mr Bell said.

"The site has long been overdue [to have] something done with it."

Durham Parish councillor Rory Handy said he was not "totally against" the gym equipment, but it was not what people wanted and there had been a "huge lack" of consultation.

"There are loads of residents around there who are really, really angry about it," he added.

The drop-in session on Tuesday faced technical difficulties, raising concerns that objections were not properly recorded.

Durham Parish councillor Victoria Ashfield said officers were "scribbling a few things" on paper.

"The process on Tuesday was ridiculous," she said.

"It isn't a consultation, it's a done deal.

"They come in with a ready-made programme, which is not what the residents want."

Graham Wood, Durham County Council's economic development manager, said all feedback had been recorded despite a "minor technical issue".

"This event is just the start of the engagement process, and people can continue to provide their views by contacting us at [email protected]," he added.

Simpa Carter from the Hemp Garden Community Association, which has been renovating the site since 2017, called for a proper consultation.

"This has been farce. It is a failed consultation," he added.

Mr Wood said concerns were acknowledged and the local authority was "committed" to providing inclusive and accessible facilities.

"We have extended the deadline for comments and will be taking stock of all responses before finalising the proposals," he added.

People can comment on the plans until 15 July.

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