THE largest and most ambitious environmental regeneration programme ever seen in West Durham was launched last week.

Over the next five years the £5.2m Mineral Valleys Project will set up a network of initiatives transforming natural, cultural and historic landscapes in parts of Weardale and the Wear Valley.

Linked with new tourist opportunities such as the Weardale Railway, the project should bring major economic benefits to more than 30 communities through restoring natural habitats, encouraging wildlife and opening up the countryside for more people to enjoy.

It will offer work-based training and opportunities for volunteers. Local residents are being involved in the design and planning. The project is led by English Nature and backed by a £2.8m grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund.

There is matched funding from 50 organisations in the Mineral Valleys Partnership including Durham County Council, Groundwork West Durham and Wear Valley District Council.

Writer and broadcaster Eric Robson launched the programme at Jubilee Meadows in Willington, which is the first of a number of projects transforming derelict landscapes around the area.

On this ancient flood meadow surrounding the former pit village, a rubble slope and flat grassland is being transformed into new meadows, wetlands and woodland, decorated with art features and linked by footpaths suitable for all ages. Other schemes include a nature reserve at Harehope Quarry, near Frosterley, wetland habitats linking West Auckland and Ramshaw, and a wild wetlands scheme at Low Barns Nature Reserve, Witton-le-Wear.

The project will also target parts of the Durham Coalfield, the River Gaunless and Stanley Beck and will focus on interpreting Roman ruins and supporting examples of diminishing wildlife, such as the barn owl.

Mr Robson, who is chairman of the Cumbria Tourist Board, said: "There are many places where tourism is the only economic activity left. To be able to link these places, ensure good provision of information and offer a worthwhile experience will allow local people and visitors to celebrate their cultural and natural heritage."