Councillor Tim Pickstone

Report to Rockcliffe Parish Council – July 2026

Councillor Tim Pickstone, Cumberland Councillor for Longtown Ward

Rockcliffe Gasification Plant – Planning Appeal

On the first day of the Planning Inspectorate hearings into the appeal against Cumberland Council’s refusal of planning permission for the gasification plant, I was able to speak against the development, alongside excellent contributions from local residents. The matter is now being considered by the Planning Inspector and no decision has yet been reached. I will update the Council as soon as there is any news.

Traffic Speed

The review of speed limits across the rural areas around Carlisle is progressing, with a report expected to go to the Highways and Transport Board this summer. Unfortunately the area around Harker Lane Ends does not qualify for a formal speed restriction under the review criteria. However, the Highways team are hoping to deliver improved signage at this junction, which I know has been a concern for residents.

Cross-Border Pylon Connection

The second stage consultation on the cross-border pylon and substation proposals – which may involve additional pylons to the substation at Harker – has now been delayed to 2027. In the meantime I have met with National Grid to better understand their thinking on any potential community benefit scheme, and to share with them what does and does not work well with existing local grant schemes. I will keep the Council updated as the process develops.

Asset Transfer

There is unfortunately still no formal process in place for asset transfers at Cumberland Council. The potential transfer of Bunny Hill remains on the list of potential sites. I will continue to push for progress on this.

Tour de France – Volunteering

The Tour de France men’s race does not pass through Rockcliffe Parish, but it remains a significant opportunity for the wider area on 2 July 2027. Around 9,000 ‘JOY Makers’ are being recruited nationwide to help welcome spectators across all six UK stages. Anyone aged 16 or over can apply – no experience needed and full training is provided. Applications are open until 1 September 2026 at http://www.letourgb.com/volunteer.

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.

Hespin Wood Landfill

I am being kept updated by the relevant teams at Cumberland Council about the continuing inspection work they are undertaking at the tip, to ensure that previous requirements are being fulfilled. As I understand it, the voluntary ban on new waste going to the site remains in place, with the exception of soil being used to help cover the existing waste.

North West Recycling

I have been asked whether a briefing meeting on changes around permits for the North West Recycling site would be useful for the Parish Council. If so, I would invite the Chair and Vice Chair to attend – or whoever the Council wishes to nominate. Please let me know if you would like me to arrange this.

Highways Issues

I am aware that there are a number of outstanding highways issues that the Council has asked me to look into, including the missing fingerpost and the dropped bus stop kerb. I will endeavour to get an update to your Clerk before the meeting.

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