Work to enhance a County Durham neighbourhood and address anti-social behaviour is
underway.
Durham County Council is working with believe housing to make improvements to key areas in and around Henknowle, Bishop Auckland.
The work follows residents raising concerns with local county councillors, Cllr Joanne
Howey and Cllr Cathy Hunt, who have been working with the council to ensure issues are
addressed.
Improvements include the removal and replacement of brick walls, the installation of new
kerbs and footpaths as well as repairs and upgrades to steps on the estate.
New handrails will also be put up where necessary to improve access, with trees and
stumps removed, more greenery planted amongst accessible footpaths to promote
wellbeing and an existing memorial garden being retained.
It’s hoped the enhancements will help deter anti-social behaviour, provide a more
aesthetically pleasing environment and improve safety across the estate.
Cllr John Shuttleworth, Cabinet member of highways, rural communities and community
safety, said: “We are pleased to be working with our local members, residents and
partners to make improvements to the Henknowle estate. We have taken feedback on
board from residents to understand what is important to them and we look forward to these
works making a positive difference to those who live here.
“It’s so important that everyone feels safe, secure and valued in their communities. These
enhancements will not only help to deter anti-social behaviour but will also instil a sense of
pride amongst residents once the works are completed.”
The projects were prioritised following a consultation event with residents, the council and
believe housing earlier this year. Funding was then made available from the council,
Bishop Auckland and Shildon Area Action Partnership’s Town and Village funding, and
believe housing.
Local businesses were also consulted ahead of the works commencing, with opportunities
identified to further enhance business and services in order to further regenerate the area.
Sean Cairns, major works manager at believe housing, said: "These improvements will not only make the area look and feel much better for residents, but also make it easier to
maintain in future.
The collaborative work between believe housing and the council will result in quicker and
less disruptive work, so the community feels the benefit of the improvements as soon as
possible
The works are expected to take around 12 weeks to complete.
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