Chairmans Report 2026
Report from the Chair presented at the Annual Parish Meeting.
Published: 23 September 2026
Chairs Annual Report on Sacriston Parish Council
Once again, I write this report as Chair of the Parish Council, and I would like to thank all Councillors for the support they have given me in carrying out this important role however, if asked to remain as Chair for a further year I feel it necessary for me to step down as Chair of both the Allotment Association and, The Finance and Human Resources committees, however, I will stay involved as a member of both committees.
As a Parish we strive to continue to improve and, achieve year on year in the light of local and national budget cuts project work which have planned for the benefit of our village and surrounding area this is evident by the work undertaken at the crossroads which has greatly enhanced that area and costings have already been agreed with Durham County Council for the annual planting not only for that particular area but also throughout the village.
There is still work to be done at the crossroads as it is intended to paint the rear wall and, to improve the seating areas making them user friendly and maintenance free.
The lifeblood of the Parish is not just the councillors but also the volunteers who provide support when and where it is necessary, the above work requires more input from councillors and volunteers to achieve an end goal, up to now, this work has been done by a very small number of councillors and local volunteers, to achieve what we see today.
The above work does not come without cost, and we have maintained year on year an amount of precept funding to ensure that payments are met.
This year, due to the need to have an election for two councillors it has come at a heavy cost to the Parish which may have an effect on what we hope to do in the village and surrounding areas over the next twelve months and it is something which we need to look at very carefully.
Our two annual events, The Party in the Park and Christmas Extravaganza will not be affected and will go ahead as planned in conjunction with the village community centre and surrounding areas providing the venue.
As I said earlier, the Parish is under enormous constraints due to national and Local cutbacks and it is those who are less fortunate within our community who tend to suffer the most.
That is why as a Parish Council we fully support the village community centre both financially and voluntarily enabling those less fortunate the opportunity to meet others in a friendly and supportive environment which improves their well-being.
As you may, or may not be aware, I am also the Chair for the Community Centre, and it is only right that I comment on how the centre is performing.
The centre continues to be very busy with a number of new groups either started or, about to start, the recent impact report of the centre identified the following;
700 + people accessed regular activities in the centre.
500+ people attended events.
10,000 + visits over the year.
3500 + hot meals served.
300 + footfall each week.
60 + volunteers.
28 different regular activities (and increasing).
18 regular external hirers.
age range: 0 -92
I ask you all to stay supportive and committed in ensuring we continue to move forward in present and future goals we decide.
I am always happy to answer any questions that may arise from my report.
Hugh Dixon
Chair