Darlington Conservatives have for some time pushed the Labour Council on its handling of this much welcomed and key attraction in Darlington.
We know it has been underperforming, it was clear to see we just wanted the truth, so changes could be made, however the Labour Council have constantly said everything is fine from Council meetings to Scrutiny Committees
Only this week Cllr Scott Durham tried to tease out the truth by asking why next year it will be allocated 24% more money than this, rather than open up and tell the truth Labour doubled down on the "nothing to see hear" message.
Labour Cllr James McGill, Chairman of the Local Services scrutiny committee said, he "welcomed the additional funding" Hopetown although had a difficult start had now "turned a corner" and that vistor numbers had "exceeded" the business plan and was confident that Hopetown would not be a burden on Council finances.
The statement made as usual to protect and deflect attention for the Labour led administration, rather than as his Job title suggests should be to scrutinise what is actually going on.
We know the Labour led Council had lied to us and yesterday Council Officers published a report which laid bare the facts
- Visitor numbers 50% less than expected
- Parking revenue down by £215,000 due to lower numbers and people parking on street
- Merchandising and catering sales down
- Overall a burden on Council Finances and "you"
Officers now claim that a number of interventions will address the underperformance, we do really hope so as this failure cannot continue and the Labour Led Council needs to get a grip, it also needs to be honest and transparent in its plans to address this horrible situation.
In the lead up to the 2025 Bicentintinary celebrations, Hopetown should be at the centre of this celebration, driving a much needed boost for the local economy and provide a lasting legacy for all.
It cannot fail and the we will at all turns hold the failing Labour Council to account, they will also point to needing more money, which is of course more of your money.
They need to first manage the finances better
For anyone who hasn't yet visited Hopetown we would encourage you to do so
