Residents and businesses are being asked for their final views on the plan that will shape the future of County Durham.
Following extensive consultations with residents, businesses and key stakeholders, such as neighbouring authorities, the latest version of the County Durham Plan has been produced.
It sets out a vision for the county up to 2030, including proposals to bring forward jobs, housing, shops, and road improvements.
The plan aims to create a thriving economy, vibrant towns, and more visitor attractions in County Durham whilst protecting and enhancing its heritage and character.
Prior to its submission to Government, which will hold a public examination in summer 2014, the final consultation includes a series of public events across the county between 14 October and 6 December.
Council officers will be available at these sessions to discuss the plan and advise people on how to respond.
Summaries of the plan and DVDs containing all of the plan documents will also be available to take away. A full list of the public consultation events is available online at www.durham.gov.uk/cdp
From the start of the consultation period on14 October, the plan, supporting documents, and information about how to respond will also be available at all council Customer Access Points, libraries and on the council’s website on the above address.
As well as the public consultation events, there will be a range of meetings with business groups, Area Action Partnerships, town and parish councils and other stakeholder groups.
Cllr Neil Foster, Cabinet member for economic regeneration, said: “The County Durham Plan is one of the most important documents the council has produced since becoming a unitary authority.
“This will shape the future of the county for the next 20 years, helping to develop a thriving economy, promoting business and providing homes whilst protecting the key aspects of this historic and beautiful county.
“I would like to thank the many people who have helped shape this document over the last three years and value their ongoing assistance.
“The consultations carried out throughout the process have given the council vital feedback that has helped shaped the final draft of the plan.
“We would encourage all residents to come to one of the sessions to see the changes made and let us know what they think of the vision for the future of our county.”
Public consultation sessions in Aycliffe and surrounding areas are as follows:
29 October, 4.00pm to 8.00pm, Bishop Auckland, Town Hall
4 November, 4.00pm to 8.00pm, Spennymoor, Town Hall
5 November, 2.00pm to 6.00pm, Shildon, Civic Hall
6 November, 4.00pm to 8.00pm, Sedgefield, Ceddesfeld Hall
7 November, 3.00pm to 7.00pm, Ferryhill, Literary Institute
8 November, 4.00pm to 8.00pm, Newton Aycliffe, Woodham Village Community Centre
