Views sought on regeneration of Seaham

Views sought on regeneration of Seaham

Residents are being invited to have their say on the future of Seaham.

Durham County Council is developing Strategic Place Plans (SPP) for each of its towns, which will see the creation of ‘visions’ that contribute to a thriving economy and meet the needs of everyone who lives and works in them.

A full engagement process has been launched that will shape Seaham’s SPP, with the council gathering thoughts on the town’s strengths and opportunities, what can be improved, and what residents would like Seaham to be in the future.

With no existing ideas in mind, the vision will be directly shaped by the people of Seaham.

Cllr Karen Allison, Durham County Council’s Cabinet member for leisure, tourism, regeneration and high street, said: “We need the community’s help in creating a new vision for Seaham.

“The SPP will give local people and businesses the chance to help shape the future of their own town by creating an agreed local vision, in line with our Economic Strategy.

“So far, we’re developing plans for Spennymoor, Durham, Shildon, Newton Aycliffe, Bishop Auckland, Stanley, Chester-le-Street, Crook, Consett, Peterlee and Barnard Castle. We’re now launching our engagement in Seaham and are looking forward to receiving feedback from the community.”

Over the next eight weeks, a full series of consultation and engagement events will be held. There will also be an outreach programme with schools, businesses and organisations.

As part of the work to develop the SPP, the council is holding on-street engagement sessions, as it seeks feedback that will help to positively shape the future of Seaham.

People can also give their views by completing a survey online before 5pm on Sunday 31 May.

Full details of how to get involved, including maps, documents, online survey forms and how to register for the events, can be found at www.letstalkcountydurham.co.uk.