A group has been formed to help the regeneration of the main road through Chilton.

The Durham Road Development Group joined forces with Durham County Council and Sedgefield Primary Care Trust to press for improvements to the A167 through the town.

The group is made up of representatives from several organisations, including Chilton Town Council, Sedgefield Borough Council, Durham County Council, the local community partnership, West Chilton Residents' Association, Cavos, Sure-Start and the local GP's surgery.

Since it was formed, two problem buildings have been demolished and developments have either started or are planned.

The proposed Chilton by-pass development and the knock-on effect it would have on Durham Road has been a major issue.

But the county council, which will manage the redevelopment of the Durham Road area, has promised that it will involve the local community in its design.

The bypass is planned to start this spring, and consultation and design works for Durham Road will begin in the autumn.

The consultation and design work will take several months, with a proposed start date of autumn next year, coinciding with the finish of the by-pass.

Sedgefield Primary Care Trust has said it will be consulting the group on the development of a health centre, which could house several services under one roof, including a dentist, pharmacy and library.

The Chilton surgery will be demolished and possibly accommodated on land next to the working men's club.

The trust will consult the local community and examine further developments, such as health and fitness and possibly childcare facilities.

For further information about the Durham Road Development Group and future developments in Chilton, contact Paul Gray on (01388) 721788.