Hundreds of Shildon residents hope the “neglected” town can be transformed into a “vibrant” place to live, writes Local Democracy Reporter, Bill Edgar.
The responses have been revealed after residents were asked about their hopes for the future and the challenges facing the County Durham town.
Durham County Council is currently consulting on new Strategic Place Plans (SPPs), which aim to create a vision for towns across the region by identifying key plans and objectives specific to each area.
Work to create an SPP in Shildon is ongoing, with 722 people including residents, local businesses and schoolchildren, involved in the process so far.
When asked what three words they would use to describe Shildon currently, the most common phrases used included “run-down, forgotten, neglected, scruffy and tired”.
Asked what people hoped for the future of the town, respondents said “community, hope, thriving, friendly and vibrant”.
Already adopted for Spennymoor and Durham City, residents and businesses will create a shared local vision.
A draft vision for Shildon, written by Durham County Council, states: “Shildon will have a future that celebrates its unique railway heritage as a catalyst for renewed civic pride and sustainable tourism.
“By fostering stronger connections between its historic assets and a revitalised town centre, improving public transport and active travel infrastructure, and creating a safe, inclusive environment with enhanced amenities and educational prospects for all ages, Shildon aims to become a vibrant, welcoming, and opportunity-rich town where residents feel a deep sense of belonging and optimism for the future.”
The initial survey results were revealed to members of the council’s economy and enterprise scrutiny committee, which provided an update on the rollout of the scheme across County Durham.
Yet, Councillor Stephen Bowron, Reform member for Chilton, questioned why Bishop Auckland and Spennymoor have benefited from Government funding over other areas in recent years. “You think the money would be shared out,” he added.
Bishop Auckland has received £33.2m of UK Government Stronger Towns funding. Spennymoor will have access to £20 million of Government funding for projects focused on reviving the high street, tackling anti-social behaviour, improving transport and growing the economy.
Graham Wood, the council’s economic development manager, said the authority is often unable to control how the funding is allocated.
He told the committee: “The majority of the money allocated to Bishop Auckland is from the Government. In Spennymoor, it was a programme allocated to us, so there was no prior warning about it. They are effectively windfall opportunities. It’s unfortunate that Shildon sits right in the centre with towns around it benefiting from these programmes.
“One of the key purposes of the SPP is to identify the level of need and aspiration.”
Phase five of the council’s consultation on the Shildon SPP closes on November 23 before a final report is prepared.
Bill Edgar
Reporter for the Local Democracy Reporter Service.
Shildon & District's local community newspaper.
