A PROJECT to improve a site used by travellers passing through Teesdale is set to go ahead.

The Teesdale Area Action Partnership (TAAP) agreed in principle to fund £8,000 of the project which will be match-funded by Durham County Council.

The funds will improve the surface of the Shaw Bank site, near Barnard Castle, which is one of six traveller-friendly sites in the dale and used by travellers on the way to Appleby Fair every May.

It was originally set up in 2005 but problems were caused this year when travellers discovered it was waterlogged, and decided to illegally camp at Startforth Park instead.

Barnard Castle’s Neighbourhood Inspector, Kevin Tuck, said the improved site would give travellers no excuse but to use the plot while championing the plans at a TAAP board meeting on Wednesday (November 13).

“I think it will represent good value for money. If we go back to 2005 there was a mass trespass on the Demenses and the community fallout and feelings of anxiousness was the trigger in us trying to get together,” he said.

“Shaw Bank is the key linchpin – it gives us the real opportunity to get travellers off other areas.”

He added: “Ultimately it’s about harmony for everybody. Shaw Bank is not a panacea to solve all the problems but there are other areas across County Durham that would love a Shaw Bank to solve their problems.”