Members of Durham County Council will next week hear about the authority’s 2022/23 budget proposals and Medium Term Financial Plan (MTFP) forecasts.

A report, which has already been discussed by the authority’s cabinet, details various investments to improve green spaces, country parks and help achieve the council’s target to reduce its carbon emissions.

A total of £500,000 has been allocated for the decarbonisation of fleet vehicles and for heating energy efficiency measures in council buildings.

Funding of £130,000 will be provided for two new street sweepers, with all of the fleet provided with the latest tracking technology to help ensure work is targeted at the areas where it is most needed.

Cllr Mark Wilkes, the council’s cabinet member for neighbourhoods and climate change, said: ‘We’re pleased to be able to announce significant investment in our frontline services, which will help to improve the lives of our residents and visitors as well as the environment in County Durham.

‘Funding will also further address issues such as pest control, upgrading our allotment sites and improving visitor attractions such as Hardwick Park. Just as importantly, we are investing in our efforts to tackle climate change as we work towards eliminating carbon emissions from our operations.’