AN ongoing row between an allotment holder and a parish council which resulted in the resignation of some councillors is heading to court to be resolved.

Last year, Maureen Powles wanted to erect a summerhouse, which was larger than rules allow, on her allotment in Hurworth, near

Darlington, to provide somewhere for her to take her disabled friend.

But Hurworth Parish Council refused permission for the structure to be built, saying it was outside the limits.

The council said the decision had nothing to do with the fact the summerhouse would be used by a disabled person, adding that 20 per

cent of the allotments at the Strait Lane site are tended by disabled people.

Ms Powles said she was “disgusted” to then receive an eviction letter after she had complained about the decision.

The council defended its ruling, saying Ms Powles was not the registered tenant for the allotment.

The dispute between the two parties has been ongoing since the middle of 2017, and despite attempts to reach an agreement, an outcome will now be decided by a County Court.

Ms Powles began constructing the summerhouse, but took it down after being made aware of the rules set by the council.

She then appealed for special permission to rebuild the structure for her disabled friend, but her request was refused.

After the row broke out last year, a number of parish councillors resigned from the council, with some confirming the row had been one of the reasons behind their decision.

In his resignation letter seen by The Northern Echo, Cllr Wood said: "Personally, I feel that it is a great shame that such a progressive set of councillors, that have contributed so much to the community, fail to share the same set of values that I do."

An independent review was carried out by Darlington Borough Council last year, but it was found the Parish Council had acted correctly in reaching its decision.

It is understood the court case will centre around the Equalities Act and disability discrimination issues, as well as "hurt feelings".

Speaking last year, Ms Powles said she was “saddened, shocked and surprised” at the decision.

“I want somewhere for her to feel safe and comfortable.

“It would give her a change of scenery and fresh air.”

Hurworth Parish Council said it would not comment on issues that are currently the subject of legal proceedings.

The case is expected to be heard early next year, although no date has yet been confirmed.