An investigation into claims of bullying, assault and unlawful use of public funds in a rural village cost Durham County Council more than £60,000.
The local authority launched a multi-year probe after members of Romaldkirk Parish Council were accused of being “dismissive and disrespectful” to others.
The dispute was ignited over long-running land disagreements and reportedly divided the picturesque Teesdale village after residents exchanged “toxic and threatening” WhatsApp messages.
“I say to all my friends and family, if you think Emmerdale is something, move to Romaldkirk,” said one resident when summing up the dispute.
Police also previously probed complaints of assault among members but closed their investigations.
A Durham County Council Standards Hearing in March ordered councillors Jacqueline Barningham, Gillian Carter, Lesley Cutting and Derek Nixon to take conduct training after several complaints against them were upheld.
The quartet were also blamed for their handling of finances and alleged false statements regarding funds. Police previously probed complaints of assault among members but closed their investigations.
Now, the full cost of the county council’s extensive investigation into the row has been revealed.
Investigating officer Rachel Antonelli was employed to preside over the feud ahead of the meeting earlier this year. Durham County Council spent a total of £62,989 on internal and external costs.
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However, Ms Antonelli’s report was criticised by a representative of the councillors.
Ivan Carter-Becker told the Standards Hearing: “The report put forward is not fair, reasoned, or justified and it should never have been put forward. When looking at the actual evidence, it’s clear the councillors acted the best way they could. The allegations are not correct.”
Helen Bradley, director of legal and democratic services, said: “The cost of dealing with the code of conduct complaints relating to Romaldkirk Parish Council between January 2023 and March 2025 totalled £62,989.
“The report to next week’s Standards Committee provides a breakdown of this, which includes £21,646 of internal costs and £41,343 of external costs.”
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