Councillor Tim Pickstone

Report to Bewcastle Parish Council – July 2026

Councillor Tim Pickstone, Cumberland Councillor for Longtown Ward

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. I am pleased to report that Sleetbeck village is expected to be included in the scheme with a new 30mph zone, which will mean additional signage at either end of the village.

Cross-Border Pylon Connection

The second stage consultation on the cross-border pylon and substation proposals 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. The campaign continues and I will keep the Council updated as the process develops.

Kinkry Hill

Following concerns raised at the last meeting, I have liaised with Riverside Housing about the drainage and waste water issues at the Kinkry Hill properties, stressing the importance of a proper and lasting solution for residents.

Rural Broadband

Following issues raised at the Annual Parish Meeting, I have reported back directly to the Clerk on the specific properties and postcodes affected by poor rural broadband in the parish, with a view to ensuring these are properly captured in any future intervention or upgrade programme.

Tour de France – Volunteering

The Tour de France men’s race passes through the wider area on 2 July 2027. 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 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.

Bewcastle Primary School

Earlier this month I was able to address children at Bewcastle Primary School in their assembly. I explained the work of a local council and a local councillor, and asked the children for their views on what they liked about their local area and what they would like to see changed.

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