Residents invited to shape Bishop Auckland’s future

A County Durham town is asking residents to share their views to help shape its future growth and development.

Durham County Council has launched a consultation on a new Strategic Places Plan (SPP) for Bishop Auckland, designed to create a long-term vision for the town.

Officials say the plan aims to highlight local strengths, identify opportunities and explore areas for improvement to ensure Bishop Auckland continues to thrive as a place to live, work and visit.

They add that it is hoped the plan will become a community-led blueprint for the town’s future.

Councillor Andrew Husband, leader of Durham County Council, said: “We are dedicated to shaping Bishop Auckland into a vibrant place to live and visit, and we recognise that the best way to do this is by listening to, and including, the people who live there at every step of the way.

“We encourage all residents to take part in one, or more, of the on-street engagement sessions, and the consultation.

“No idea is too big, or too small and they will all be considered with care.

“For those living outside of Bishop, similar SPP events will be coming to areas such as Stanley, Chester-le-Street, Peterlee, Crook, Consett, Barnard Castle and Seaham.

“The aim of the SPP is to help create safer, friendly town centre environments with an

increased focus around experiences, community and convenience.”

The consultation will run for eight weeks and will be delivered with the support of Urban Foresight.

The engagement sessions will be taking place at the following locations and dates:

Market Place on-street – Thursday, September 4
Newgate Street/Shopping Centre on-street – Thursday, September 11
Four Clocks Centre drop-in – Thursday, September 11
Bishop Auckland Library drop-in – Friday, September 12
Woodhouse Community Centre – Friday, September 26
Market Place on-street (street food market) – Friday, September 26 between 3pm and 7pm.
Morrisons on-street – Wednesday, October 1

In addition to public events, outreach will take place across schools, businesses, community meetings and local organisations, ensuring a wide range of voices are heard.

The consultation closes on Friday, October 17 at 5pm, with full details of dates, venues and online surveys available at www.letstalkcountydurham.co.uk.

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