Councillor Tim Pickstone

Report to Arthuret Parish Council – July 2026

Councillor Tim Pickstone, Cumberland Councillor for Longtown Ward

Speed Restrictions

The rural Carlisle speed review is progressing. I have confirmed that the 30mph zone on the Brampton Road will be extended further south as part of the developer conditions on the Fawns Wood estate. A similar extension on the Netherby Road is currently being investigated by Highways.

Highways

I am doing a significant amount of work with Highways and Planning around the unfinished road surface on the St Michael’s Drive estate. It is over three years since the last house was completed, and it is unacceptable that this remains unresolved. Similar discussions will follow for the more recent Waverley Close area.

I have asked for, and been promised, a schedule of works from Connect Highways for the A7 (maintained under a private contract). This follows complaints from residents, particularly in the Carlisle Road area and the high flooding-risk area to the north of Westlinton.

I have investigated the issue of Christmas lights attachments on street lamps and have had a positive response from Highways. I will liaise on the details with the Clerk.

Tour de France – One Year to Go

2 July marked exactly one year until the Tour de France men’s race comes through Longtown. The race begins in Edinburgh on 2 July 2027, coming over the border and down the A7 before the opening stage finishes in Carlisle. Road repairs on the A7 and the Brampton Road are scheduled this summer in preparation.

The Extended Services Group is working across all local agencies – including the Parish Council – to make the day a huge success for Longtown. Key things still to plan include decorating the town and making sure there is a great events and catering offer, as everyone watching the race will be here for some time. More discussions are needed with the Council on road closures.

There is also a great volunteering opportunity: around 9,000 ‘JOY Makers’ are being recruited nationwide to help welcome spectators and keep things running smoothly across all six UK stages. Anyone aged 16 or over can apply – no experience needed, full training provided. Applications are open until 1 September 2026 at http://www.letourgb.com/volunteer.

Extended Services Group

A Longtown Fun Day is planned for Saturday 1 August, with activities at the Graham Arms, the Community Centre and a couple of other venues in the town. It is hoped this can grow each year into a larger summer event. The business breakfast for local firms has become a regular networking event, which is really good for the town.

Borderlands and the Community Centre

The first phase of Borderlands funding – the interior work at the Community Centre – has now been submitted to the Borderlands Board for approval. The aim is to create a centre fit for the 21st century, providing more space suitable for activities for all ages, including skills and learning. Once approved, plans can be taken to a final stage and quotes and contractors secured, with work expected to begin in early 2027. The second phase (the A7) will require further public consultation before moving forwards, with engagement planned for later this year.

Cumberland Local Plan

Cumberland Council has published an updated timetable for its new Local Plan, following new government regulations which came into force in March 2026. The Local Plan will set out the long-term vision and policies for development and land use across Cumberland. The first stage of public consultation – a ‘scoping’ consultation – is scheduled for September 2026. I will share details of how to take part nearer the time.

Please don’t hesitate to contact me if there are issues I can help with.