Agenda item

The Cabinet considered a report of the Corporate Director of Regeneration, Economy and growth which provided an update on the Durham City Strategic Place Plan and to agree the vision.

The report also provided an update on the development of the Strategic Place Plan pilots in Spennymoor, Shildon and Newton Aycliffe and outlined the future programme of Strategic Place plan development. (for copy of report, see file of minutes).

Councillor Scott, Cabinet Portfolio Holder for Economy and Partnerships explained that the plans marked a significant departure from traditional master plans, prioritised community involvement and a holistic ‘whole town’ approach to current and emerging regeneration priorities.

Highlighting the Durham City project, Councillor Scott said that this exemplified the co-design approach, with extensive and diverse community input shaping the future vision and key priorities of the City.

This vision underlined the vital role of the City in County Durham's broader regeneration, offering a new, unique blend of heritage, culture and progress that benefits both residents and visitors. The codesign approach was also evident in the Spennymoor, Shildon and Newton Aycliffe pilot programmes, demonstrated the power of community led initiatives to drive local regeneration, which would help secure significant external funding to help deliver local priorities.

The report also outlined a timetable for developing individual town visions and priorities across the County. The plans would serve as a crucial guide for future funding opportunities and would align with the transition of Area Action Partnerships into Local Networks, which emphasised the importance of identifying and delivering on local priorities. Councillor Scott thanked staff across Regeneration who had embraced the new way of working.

Resolved:

That the recommendations in the report be approved.