THE appearance of Shildon town centre was highlighted by members of the community as an issue which needs addressing.

Shildon Chamber of Trade, which re-constituted themselves 18-months ago, recently held their first public meeting to inform the community of their plans for the town and to gauge feedback on their achievements so far.

Since re-establishing last year, the initiative has introduced Loyalty Card Scheme in Shildon, hosted the town’s first Christmas Market, and established links with various statutory and voluntary organisations to encourage regeneration and growth through partnership working.

Representatives from Durham County Council also attended the meeting to present ideas for the regeneration of the town centre.

Issues raised at the meeting included criticism of the appearance of the town centre and signage around the town.

However, many praised the Chamber for being a credit to the town.

President of the Chamber of Trade, Christopher Bowman, who owns Console Connections, in Shildon, said: “It was encouraging to find that people are as passionate about their town as are we and that they took time out from their own busy lives to come along and share their thoughts with us.

“The information gathered will be most useful in our designs to secure and safeguard the future of our town.”

Meanwhile, plans are underway for this year’s Christmas market, which will coincide with the switch-on of the town’s Christmas lights.

Discussions are also taking place over the introduction of a junior loyalty card for the town.

To sign up for the loyalty card scheme currently on offer, visit shildonbusinesses.co.uk.