Residents and businesses can have their say on a proposed £6.2 million flood prevention scheme for Chester-le-Street at an event next week.
Durham County Council is considering opening up a 90m stretch of the Cong Burn, which runs underneath the town’s Market Place, and is asking members of the public for their views on the proposals.
As part of a public consultation, officers from the authority will be on hand to answer questions during a drop-in event at Cornerstones Community Centre, North Burns, on Tuesday, 6 February between 2pm and 7pm.
It is hoped that as well as reducing the risk of flooding in the town, the proposed changes, which would see the watercourse transformed into a public realm feature, could also provide an economic boost to the town.
The council has committed up to £1.5 million to the scheme, which also includes plans to extend the town’s existing flood wall, and is applying to the Environment Agency and European Regional Development Fund for the remainder of the cash.
Cllr Simon Henig, Leader of Durham County Council and ward member for Chester-le-Street West Central, said: “Chester-le-Street has a history of flooding and was particularly badly affected by a severe storm in the summer of 2012.
“This scheme would not only enable us to reduce flood risk in the long-term, it would also give us the opportunity to create a much more attractive and appealing public area which we hope will provide a catalyst for the further regeneration of the town.”
The consultation, which runs until Sunday, 11 February, also invites residents and traders to provide their feedback on alternative locations for the town’s market if the scheme goes ahead.
For more information and to take part in the consultation, visit www.durham.gov.uk/consultation. Surveys are also available from Chester-le-Street Customer Access Point, Chester-le-Street Library or by calling 03000 260 000.