The North East’s biggest council has welcomed news that almost £20 million of Government funding will be invested into a County Durham town.

Durham County Council will receive the award for Bishop Auckland from the Future High Streets Fund, which aims to support areas to recover from the pandemic and help to protect and create more jobs in the region.

Cllr Carl Marshall, Durham County Council’s Cabinet member for economic regeneration, said: “We welcome the announcement of an award of £19.9 million for investment into Bishop Auckland town centre following our submission into the Future High Streets Fund. I would like to thank everyone locally who has helped to shape our plans for the future of the town.

“This is part of our vision to transform the high street, supporting the conversion of vacant and underused buildings by creating new opportunities for the retail and hospitality sectors, supporting our revival, restoration and recovery from the impact of the pandemic.

“A key factor is to ensure the area is accessible with a new bus station and car parks, thereby increasing footfall and providing better links to key visitor attractions in the surrounding areas.

“This will attract more visitors and create new jobs, contributing to economic regeneration and ensuring the local community has a town centre they can be proud of.

“It is only the start of our plans for Bishop Auckland. Our Towns Fund proposal is also currently out for consultation and due to be submitted by the council at the end of January. Our plan sets out further ambitious proposals for transport infrastructure, investment in digital, employment and training opportunities.”


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1 COMMENT

  1. It’s good to see Bishop Auckland getting money, but what about Durham Silver Street and about. They’re looking like Bishop’s front street, Empty.

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