Richard Holden MP backs the #CityOfCulture bid for County Durham.
Richard offers the following statement:
"There is a battle of ideas and some party political to-and-fro, which is healthy in a democracy and keeps people on their toes. But when it comes to fundamentals for our region and country - like support during the global pandemic or major bids, like #Durham2025 or work on All-Party Parliamnatry Groups like for better regulation of online gaming - I’m always first in line to work cross-party. Below is a clip from a couple of weeks ago of me and The Labour Leader of Gateshead Council about working together to get support for regional services during the pandemic both inside and outside my area for the benefit of the wider community.
"#Durham2025 is the same for me and I’ve been delighted to back the bid for County Durham with Paul Howell MP for Sedgefield & Dehenna Davison alongside the Conservatives, Lib Dem’s and Independents & Labour groups on our council and Labour MPs Mary Kelly Foy MP & Grahame Morris who have openly expressed their support too. And MPs for historic Co. Durham are also on side including Jill Mortimer - MP for Hartlepool, Matt Vickers MP & Peter Gibson MP who have all publically declared their support due to the wider regional benefits.
"Fingers crossed for Durham 2025. We’ve already gone from one in twenty who originally applied to one in four. And even if we don’t get through the benefits of the planning and work that has taken place - as well as the profile-raising of the County will have benefits that outweigh the costs to date.
"Best wishes and come on County Durham!"
