A PIECE of waste ground in north Durham is to be transformed for community use.

Durham Agency Against Crime and Groundwork North-East are working on the scheme in Burnhope, near Stanley, on a piece of land off a track behind the Ivy Leaf Club.

Grace Crawford, programme co-ordinator for Groundwork North-East, said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for local residents to get involved in developing a new and exciting community space for Burnhope.

“We hope that the event will attract lots of local people to provide us with their ideas that will help us to design a space that will meet the needs of the village." 

A working group has been set up including representatives of the Burnhope Parish Council, the Community Association, the Youth Partnership and Durham Agency Against Crime.

One of the first tasks is to find out how local people would like to use the two hectare site.

Ideas provided so far include the creation of allotment gardens, a wildlife area, a nature trail and a community garden.

A drop-in event is being arranged to take place between 1pm and 3pm on Saturday Ivy Leaf Club, Burnhope, which local people are invited to attend.

Displays will provide more information about the project and staff from the organisations involved will be available to discuss ideas and answer any questions.

Free refreshments and children’s activities will also be provided.

For further information contact Grace Crawford at Groundwork North-East on 01207 524803 or email grace.crawford@groundwork.org.uk.