Work started this month in several areas of Spennymoor reports Cllr Liz Maddison on behalf of Spennymoor’s independent county councillors.
Market area
Improvements to the market area are making good progress heading towards an early July completion.
Seating, lighting and new bins are on order. Lighting ducting has been put in place and new flagstones are being installed inside the circles. The steps are to be widened and improved. A site visit planned with Neighbourhood Services to discuss the planting scheme. A new shop front improvement scheme will be initiated and the canopy in front of the Sorting Office is to be removed. Officers continue to work with shop owners to implement this scheme across the town; we have also identified some premises that would benefit from this scheme and passed information on.
Environment
In terms of environmental concerns, land to the rear of Cheapside and on the approach to the new Aldi building is to be replanted and have new railings installed, with the private road improved if possible. A solution is also being looked at to remove trade waste bins from footpaths and thoroughfares.
The Aldi store is set to open on the 19 May with a quick transition from the old store to the new one. CCTV has already been installed to ensure security.
City of Culture
The UK City of Culture judges were in County Durham on the 9 May and Liz was invited to a meet and greet luncheon with them. We have lobbied for a brown tourist sign off the A688 by pass to welcome visitors to our Town and have a meeting planned to look at improving our countryside walks.
Broadband
Virgin Media approached Councillors for a meeting to discuss their plans to deliver ultra fast Fibre broadband and their TV network in identified areas across Spennymoor and Tudhoe Divisions.
This would be a major investment for our area. Myself, Billy and Pete accepted the invitation to get more information. There has been collaboration working directly with Ofcom on this project. It is part of the Government’s long term commitment to expand and improve broadband services across the country. As soon as arrangements have been firmed up with Durham County Council, an update will be given to residents.
Roads
Road surfacing work has taken place on the roads of Westerdale, Rosedale, Bransdale and Glaisdale, Greenways Estate; also at Lynne Road and Durham Street, Middlestone Moor. This work was requested two years ago and has had to be planned in.
Paths and highways
Paths and highways that need attention continue to be identified and passed on to the council.
A consultation is taking place to get resident views on planning and highway issues (including parking on footpaths).
Find out more information on the consultation by visiting www.durham.gov.uk/consultations.
Local councillors have contributed towards the bus services consultation which aims to improve services.
It is understood that comments have been accepted and included for consideration into the North East bus services strategy plan currently under review.
Spennymoor's local community newspaper.
