I THINK many people will share Councillor Carol Woods’ recent comment that Durham County Council (DCC) “needs to look at how it consults with people” (Echo, May 30).
It is not surprising that only 37 people responded to a questionnaire on the council’s sport and leisure strategy.
People are fed up with their comments and views being ignored or dismissed by the county council.
There are numerous “consultations” by DCC but when people do respond they feel it is a complete waste of time as often their comments are not even acknowledged.
Even the current County Durham Plan consultation, although acknowledging some comments from communities, ignores other comments made in the first round of consultation.
People are often accused of being apathetic when it comes to taking part in consultations about issues which affect their lives. But evidence shows that it is not apathy, but frustration, since all too often their views and wishes are ignored without them receiving any feedback or justification for the council’s actions.
Durham County Council should seek out some good practice as a matter of urgency.
Julia Bowles, Sedgefield.
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