SUGGESTIONS that there is a hidden agenda to close old people's homes have been rejected by Durham County Council.

Independent Councillor Tony Moore says concern is growing in the wake of the decision to close temporarily two homes: Essyn House, at Easington, and Syke House, at Burnopfield, near Stanley.

The Labour-run county council says Syke House needs urgent fire safety work while Essyn House requires repairs to its heating system.

But Coun Moore said: "People at homes throughout the county are concerned as to their future.

"I'm worried that there is a hidden agenda to permanently close these two homes and maybe others in the county.

"Residents and relatives and staff are worried. We need an assurance from the council that money is available for the repairs that are needed at the homes.

"I have seen it happen before. Darlington council closed its homes. Closure will cause major upheaval for residents if they have to leave the homes and the people they are used to."

A county council spokesman said: "There's no hidden agenda and there has been no consideration of any other establishments.

"The evacuations of these two homes are being undertaken as precautionary measures, solely in the interests of residents and staff.

"We are not talking about closures, because they will be the subject of a comprehensive report on repairs that are necessary to bring them up to the standards of our other homes."

The county council's cabinet has met behind closed doors to discuss the two homes.

A two paragraph report to today's meeting of the executive committee say the cabinet supports the prompt action instituted by council leader Don Robson.

Coun Moore said: "This is another reason why cabinets must not meet I secret. People should know what is said and what action is being taken on serious issues like this.