New designs set to restore a County Durham town’s historic character are to be unveiled.
Durham County Council will unveil new concept designs for Seaham town centre this week. The proposed improvements are a key part of the second stage application to the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) to deliver a £1.6m townscape heritage scheme to restore the town’s historic character and create a more attractive, vibrant and interesting place to live, work and visit.
The first drop-in event will take place at Seaham Library on Thursday, 3 January from 4pm to 7pm and will provide people with the opportunity to take a look at the concept designs and speak to officers from the council’s Seaham Townscape Heritage Project team.
There will also be a second opportunity to view the plans and speak to officers the following day, on Friday, 1 February from 10am to 1pm in Byron Place Shopping Centre.
The public realm designs focus on:
- Widening of the footpath at North Terrace to improve pedestrian access and to facilitate additional alfresco dining for the businesses operating in the area.
- Enhancement of the preserved Rainton and Seaham Railway tracks and public space at South Crescent.
- Improving access and pedestrian flow between the main shopping centre, car parks and the sea front.
- Enhancement of the lower end of Church Street.
Cllr Carl Marshall, Durham County Council’s Cabinet member for economic regeneration, said: “The regeneration of Seaham is a priority for the council. The proposed enhancements will complement the great work that has already taken place in the town and will help to showcase the area’s rich heritage to visitors.
“Our officers and consultants will work closely with the community to make sure people have their voices heard and opinions considered. I’d encourage as many people as possible to come along and see the designs and speak to our officers”.
To find out more about the project visit http://www.durham.gov.uk/seahamtownscapeheritage
