News

Masterplan displays ideas for Durham in the year 2020

(18 August 2006)

Broad ideas about the possible shape of Durham City centre in 2020 are on show for public comment until 13 October.

An exhibition on the Masterplan for Durham City 2020 Vision has already opened at the Durham Tourist Information Centre in Millennium Square and will run in other venues, including the University’s Palace Green Library from 1 September. The Vision looks ahead to how Durham might develop in the years up to 2020 to ensure that the City realises its full economic potential, while retaining its precious heritage and historic character. Many of the ideas contained in the Masterplan are drawn from the extensive public consultation exercise that took place a year ago, which gathered opinions from all round County Durham. They include a wide range of strategies to improve the City’s economic vitality, protect its historic environment and revitalise retailing and cultural facilities in the City centre. General improvements also cover opportunities for walking and cycling, and managing traffic and transport. The Masterplan has been prepared for the Durham City Centre Steering Group (comprising City of Durham Council, Durham County Council, One NorthEast, Durham University and the Chapter of Durham Cathedral), which was formed in 2003 with the job of developing a new Vision for the City towards 2020. The Steering Group seeking further public comment before the outline goes forward to the next stages of consideration. The public consultation period is not about specific proposals but a chance for people to share their views on the opportunities that are being explored. The Masterplan material is to be available shortly on the website, www.durhamvision.org.uk and a special display will be on show at: Durham Tourist Information Centre, Durham – August 18-31. County Hall, Durham – August 18-31 Stella House, Newburn Riverside, Newcastle – August 18-Sept 7. City of Durham offices, Annand House, Meadowfield – Sept 1-15. Durham University Library, Palace Green – Sept 1- Oct 13 City of Durham offices, Coxhoe – Sept 8-Oct 13. City of Durham offices, Claypath – Sept 16-Oct 13.