Partner Article

Public to have say on Market Place re-vamp

Members of the public will this week get a chance to give their views on how Durham’s Market Place and historic Vennels should look after a major refurbishment.

People will be able to have their say on draft sketch designs at a public consultation, organised by Durham City Vision, taking place the Main Hall of Durham Town Hall this Friday between 10am and 7pm and Saturday between 10am and 6pm (January 30 & 31).

This follows the announcement that £5.25m will be used to create a high-quality public space that can be used for markets, events and gatherings. It will be the first time since the mid 1970s that the centre of Durham has attracted such a level of investment.

In January 2008, more than 900 people and businesses completed a questionnaire as part of a further stage of public consultation; this feedback has been combined with expert research to produce new designs unveiled at a stakeholder workshop last week.

Harvey Dowdy, Director of Durham City Vision, said: “The workshop was exceptionally well attended by representatives of various groups. The design team outlined various options and the opinions expressed will inform more detailed proposals for the public consultation this week. There was broad consensus on several issues, including the need for change and especially the need to prioritise pedestrians over vehicles and to make floor surfaces safer and more uniform.

“We are pleased with the progress that is being made towards ensuring Durham’s Market Place fulfils its key role as a vibrant gateway to the commercial heart of our historic City.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Ruth Mitchell .