Row breaks out as authority announces plan to replace 'historic' cobbled section with granite setts and York stone
Plans to remove cobbles from around Yarm’s town hall and war memorial will “radically change the look and feel” of the High Street, say opponents.
Stockton Council is to replace cobbles from parking bays behind the town hall, through to Central Street with granite setts and York stone.
The authority announced £500,000 plans in February to install pay and display meters and improve lighting and paving on the high street.
It said it had worked closely with Yarm Town Council and the Chamber of Trade.
But Stephanie Richardson, owner of Strickland and Holt and a member of Yarm Chamber of Trade, said the chamber had not heard about the cobbles being replaced until last Friday.
She said: “The cobbles are an intrinsic part of the look and feel of the town and its conservation area.
"The scheme will radically change the look and feel of Yarm’s historic High Street.”
Mrs Richardson believes that Yarm residents should have had a chance to comment on any proposals.
“The cobbles are part of Yarm’s history and the area around the town hall shows them in their glory, when they are nicely laid.
“The people of Yarm need time now to comment on a properly presented proposal so they can decide.”
Gallery: Yarm Town Hall
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Yarm Residents’ Association has also hit out at the decision, launching a petition asking for consultation.
Chairman Martin Kenefec said: “There has been no prior consultation at all. The Yarm Town Hall has been set among cobbles since the 17th Century.
"People should have their say on whether they want them replacing with something that is completely out of character.”
But Councillor Peter Monck, chairman of Yarm Town Council, said: “The design looks aesthetically pleasing.
"We have had problems with the cobbles, people trip up on them and those using wheelchairs and pushchairs can struggle. The granite setts will be user-friendly and will level the area off.
“The town council worked closely with Stockton Council and we support their plans.
“I expected some people to be unhappy because the cobbles are part of Yarm’s history, but the proposals will benefit the town.”
Councillor Mike Smith, Stockton Council’s Cabinet member for regeneration and transport, said: “These are high quality improvements using high quality materials and will be sympathetic to the high street’s unique character and attractive environment.”
Cllr Smith said the council was “surprised by the comments” from the Chamber of Trade, as the authority had worked closely with it, the town council and the Showmen’s Guild to plan the works and ensure minimal disruption to Yarm Gala, and finish the work before the town’s First World War centenary commemorations in August.
He continued: “We will be cleaning the town’s war memorial in time for those events and installing new lighting to illuminate the Town Hall in spectacular style at night.
“The new paving in the immediate vicinity of the town hall will improve access to this area, particularly for people with prams and pushchairs.”
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