An MP has admitted he is “running out of patience” with a town centre ambition to redevelop derelict buildings, writes Local Democracy Reporter, Bill Edgar.
Bishop Auckland’s Sam Rushworth reiterated the need for investment to boost plans to breathe new life into the town.
The Labour MP said he understood residents’ questions about whether public money is spent efficiently when several buildings on Newgate Street require significant investment.
Empty shops that have long been outlined for improvements include the old Beales unit in the heart of the town centre.
But despite showing it to potential investors, contacting hotel chains and pleading for extra investment, nobody has pledged to improve it.
The MP said: “We can either leave it abandoned for another ten years until it becomes a serious and expensive health and safety hazard. Or, we can back private with public investment to create jobs and beautify the high street.”
A new auction process is also being trialled in the town in a bid to fill the empty shops.
Mr Rushworth added: “To be completely honest, I am running out of patience.
“As an MP, I do not control a single pound of public money. I do not set council budgets or public spending pots.
“All I can do is fight for our town, amplify the voices of locals – who I know agree with me that Newgate Street should have been a spending priority – bring people together, attract support and investment, and keep pushing until we see progress.”
Despite the concerns, he welcomed the opening of the new Bishop Auckland Bus Station, which he said, “undoubtedly improves the look of the town centre”.
Durham County Council said it continues to explore investment opportunities to improve the town and said the new bus station is a “major step” in its regeneration plans.
Graham Wood, economic development manager, said: “Bishop Auckland is only partway through its regeneration journey, and we are working alongside partners and stakeholders to ensure it realises its full potential.”
Bill Edgar
Reporter for the Local Democracy Reporter Service.
Bishop Auckland's local community newspaper.
