New multi-million funding programmes will help “unlock the potential” of County Durham communities, writes Local Democracy Reporter, Bill Edgar.
The government’s £20 million investment in Stanley, Peterlee, Crook, and Tow Law through its Pride in Place scheme has been supported by Durham County Council.
Each community will receive £2 million every year for a decade to help with regeneration projects.
Latest council data shows Peterlee recorded the highest number of empty shops in County Durham, with a vacancy rate of 40.8 per cent.
Durham County Council’s cabinet members backed the investment plan at a meeting on Wednesday (March 18).
The areas selected by the Government were chosen because they are classed as ‘doubly disadvantaged’ due to having the highest deprivation levels and weakest social infrastructure.
Local people will decide how funding is spent through neighbourhood boards, and communities will gain new powers to seize boarded-up shops, block nuisance businesses, and buy local assets before they close.
Councillor Karen Allison said: “This programme provides a significant long-term opportunity to empower residents and transform our neighbourhoods.”
The latest funding was announced in September 2025 after Spennymoor was included in an initial 2023 scheme.
Funding for the town will be used to revive the high street, tackle anti-social behaviour, improve transport, and grow the economy. A Town Board was set up by Durham County Council to oversee the investment in 2024 and continues to work on implementing the local recommendations.
Cllr Allison, cabinet member for leisure, tourism, regeneration and high street, added: “The national guidance makes clear that strong, inclusive neighbourhood boards will be essential, with community representatives at the heart of decision making – and the council acting as an accountable body.
“Accepting this funding and formalising our role, we can unlock the potential of all three phase two areas and build on the positive learning emerging from Spennymoor.”
Councils will also be allowed to seize derelict buildings and boarded-up shops under Community Right to Buy and compulsory purchase powers.
Nicola Lyons, cabinet member for communities and civic resilience, said: “The expansion of Pride in Place aligns with our approach to locality working, community empowerment, and inclusive regeneration.
“The emphasis on resident-led planning, transparent governance, and early investment in engagement will ensure these neighbourhoods shape the priorities that matter most to them.”
Bill Edgar
Reporter for the Local Democracy Reporter Service.
South West Durham News covering news across County Durham.
