Following enquiries made on behalf of residents Stacey and I have received an update from the planning case officer on ongoing restoration works on the site of the former pit heap in Hesleden. The update also included details of the timescale for restoration works:
Regarding the presence of JTL Mr Dig Groundworks on the site. This was the first notification of their involvement, and immediate clarification was sought from the site operator. It was confirmed that JTL Mr Dig Groundworks Ltd has been contracted by Robert Surtees to undertake site restoration in accordance with the requirements of the Enforcement Notice.
As outlined in the Enforcement Notice, all stockpiled material must be removed by 12 May 2025, with full site restoration to be completed in accordance with the approved restoration scheme by 11 November 2025. The site has not been abandoned, and the compliance periods set out in the Enforcement Notice remain in effect.
For
clarity, responsibility for site restoration rests with the landowner or
occupant. Durham County Council has no responsibility for these works, and JTL
Mr Dig Groundworks Ltd is neither affiliated with nor contracted by the
Council.
We will continue to monitor progress on restoration of the site and update residents on any significant developments. In the meantime if you have any comments or queries please continue to contact us in the usual way: rob.crute@durham.gov.uk or stacey.deinali@durham.gov.uk
