A NEW forum aimed at improving community relations has been launched.

The Durham City Liaison Group will bring together representatives of Durham University, Durham County Council, the police and the students’ union, along with local councillors, business leaders, landlords, agents and residents.

The first meeting was chaired by Ron Hogg, the Police and Crime Commissioner.

He said: “I am keen to use this forum as an excellent opportunity to discuss issues and promote good community relations.

“I have strong expectations that it will proactively address some of the concerns expressed by the residential community.”

Professor Chris Higgins, the vice-chancellor, of Durham University, said the forum would provide “an effective means by which all of us who care for this city” could meet and share information and ideas “for the benefit of community relations and the future development of Durham City.”