Public to be consulted on plans to improve Peterlee

Durham County Council is currently developing plans for the future of the town – along with similar plans for Newton Aycliffe, Stanley, Crook, Willington and Tow Law – as part of its Towns and Villages programme.

It also has a new “regeneration framework” for Durham City and Chester-le-Street.

The documents set out projects aimed at boosting the prosperity of each location and range from improving transport links and infrastructure - including new pedestrian and cycle routes - to enhancing leisure facilities, repurposing vacant buildings, expanding employment sites, installing free town centre Wi-Fi, and exploring opportunities to provide more housing.

On November 17, the council’s cabinet will be updated on the plans – to support future funding bids as the area recovers from the impact of the coronavirus pandemic – and asked to agree for a public consultations to take place on the plans from November 29 to January 14.

Cllr Elizabeth Scott, the council’s cabinet member for economy and partnerships, said: “The last 18 months have been incredibly difficult and we have a renewed commitment to revitalising towns and villages in County Durham.

“The impact of the pandemic has made this work more important than ever.”

She added: “This latest round of draft masterplans sets out a range of projects tailored to the needs of each town, and we are keen to hear the views of the people who live and work in these areas.

"That is why we are asking cabinet to agree to a public consultation.”