News-Views sought on new plan for Durham

We have launched a consultation on a new Strategic Places Plan (SPP) and a Conservation Area Management Plan (CAMP) for Durham.

The plans will help us create a safe, friendly, and modern city, focusing on experiences, community, and convenience. 

The SPP will set out a positive vision for the city, in line with our Inclusive Economic Strategy. It will give residents and businesses the chance to help shape the future of their own city through an agreed local vision based on their input.

Meanwhile, the CAMP will reinforce and protect the special architectural and historic interest of the city. The plan proposes to divide the current conservation area into seven smaller conservation areas, making it more manageable. This includes removal from the conservation area of some modern developments, an extension at Old Durham, and a new conservation area around the Hill Colleges.

Shape the city's future

Cllr Elizabeth Scott, our Cabinet member for economy and partnerships, said: "The nature of towns and cities and what people desire from them has changed. We need to look toward a modern, 21^st Century offer for Durham, and we need the public's help in creating this new vision for the city.

"We want to create a modern offer that attracts people to the city while also preserving Durham's unique charm and important heritage. But this plan needs to be shaped by the priorities of the businesses, residents, and visitors of Durham. We are keen to have people's feedback on these two important plans so that we can positively shape the city's future."

Consultation events

We are seeking views on the proposed new conservation area boundaries, as well as the draft CAMP Strategic Overview and Management Strategy documents.

A series of consultation and engagement events will be carried out as well as an outreach programme with schools, businesses, and user groups.

As part of the consultation, we will be holding a drop-in session for both the SPP and CAMP, and an online session for the CAMP only.

The first drop-in session will take place on Tuesday 22 October at Elvet Methodist Church in Durham, between 3pm and 7pm.

The CAMP online session takes place on Thursday 24 October between 5pm and 6.30pm.

Further engagement and drop-in events will be taking place during the engagement period. Details of the events will be shared on our website.

People can also take part in the consultation by completing a survey online.

The consultation closes at 5pm on Monday 25 November.