But Labour has criticised the controlling groups for raising council tax and accused them of failing to invest in the poorest communities.
The party’s candidates insist that on the doorstep, the reception is not as hostile as their opponents claim.
Group leader Councillor Carl Marshall said: “I think it’s time for change.
“County Durham can look forward with a bit of optimism to what Labour are going to deliver if we are successful.
“That’s going to include tackling issues with off-road bikes, anti-social behaviour, working to bring investment back to our high streets and putting the council back where it should be in the community.”
Another political party looking to make gains – the Green Party- believes it is insurgents and not previous incumbents who are best placed.
Their only current councillor, Jonathan Elmer, says it is clear voters are looking somewhere other than Labour for change.
“We know when we ask the question on the doorstep that people are choosing Greens and Reform, and Reform not because they believe in their far-right agenda, but because they are protesting about mainstream politics,” Elmer said.
“My message is if you elect a Green councillor, that’s a sensible protest vote, you’re actually getting somebody who’s going to work hard week in and week out.”
