Work on ‘jewel in crown’ of dale at ‘critical stage’
WORK on a vision for the “jewel of Wear Valley” and its surrounding areas is at a “critical stage” according to council officials.Wear Valley District Council commissioned the Stanhope Town Vision report to look into economic projects in the town and its surrounding area after securing £230,000 for business investment from One North East.
At a meeting of Wear Valley District Council’s regeneration committee this week, councillors agreed that that the Stanhope Town Vision is very interesting and the council will now review the report prepared by Miller Research. Speaking to councillors, strategic director for environment and regeneration, Bob Hope, said:
“This research has been carried out independently from the council and it now forms the basis for consultation. Work is at a critical stage and we will continue to seek to develop a vision for the future.”
Cllr Colin Hayton said: “I love Stanhope and think it is one of the jewels in Wear Valley’s crown. I can sympathise with locals who say leave it alone, but it is a place of great importance in the future of Wear Valley. This report is a very good start.” Cllr Barbara Laurie said: “This is an interesting paper with ideas for the potential of Stanhope. It is also interesting and encouraging to see how closely Stanhope’s economic future is linked with the Eastgate project.”
The report said that there is lack of a critical mass of shops and services and poor parking. People questioned want to see more affordable housing and key assets such as Stanhope Castle need to be enhanced.
