Member Article

£850m 'Master Plan' for Durham city

Public sector support and investment of some £130m could generate around £850m in private sector investment for Durham City, a master plan has outlined.

The regeneration masterplan for the city, which boasts unrivalled heritage, outlines how, with sensitive planning and strategic investment, it could host the fastest growing economy in the North East.

To support these economic prospects Durham County Council has set out a new approach which harnesses the city’s history, heritage, academic excellence and transport links to showcase its potential to the private sector.

The masterplan also reveals how by supporting:

• Retail development in the North Road and Claypath areas in particular
• Infrastructure – via western and northern relief roads
• The University’s strategy for growth, particularly in post-graduate and overseas students
• City centre housing
• World class cultural events – including Lumiere, the Lindisfarne Gospels exhibition, cycling and international cricket fixtures

Cabinet member for economic regeneration, Cllr Neil Foster, said: “By being sensitive to this great city’s heritage and history and playing to its unique strengths there is much that can be achieved.

“This will require the public sector facilitating and supporting wherever possible significant private sector investment, particularly in the city centre. This needs to be approached in a planned and coordinated way. The masterplan will allow us to work with the private sector, and our partners at the University and Cathedral to ensure we make the most of our terrific offer.”

Cabinet will consider the masterplan and be asked to approve a wider consultation with partners , businesses and other interested groups, when member meet at County Hall next week (September 18).

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Martin Walker .