PEOPLE are being invited to attend consultation evenings on plans for the future of Durham City centre.

The city council's 2020 Vision and Masterplan have attracted a lot of interest. Almost 2,000 questionnaires have been filled in and its website has received more than 200 hits.

Three public meetings are being held, at which people can say how they would like the city centre to develop.

The first is this evening at Coxhoe Leisure Centre, at 6pm, and will be followed next Wednesday by the council's third annual State of the City Debate, which this year is being devoted to the blueprint.

That event will be held in the Gala Theatre at 6.30pm for 7pm. It will be chaired by the Mayor John Lightley and is due to end at 8.30pm.

The third meeting will be held on Tuesday, August 9 at Meadowfield Leisure Centre, at 6pm.

A council spokeswoman said the response to the consultation so far had been pleasing and that the three evenings would give people a chance to air their views and ask questions in person.

The State of the City Debate will be attended by representatives of other bodies such as Durham County Council and One North-East and the proceedings will be recorded.

"The event is open to everyone and anyone living or working in Durham City district. This is an excellent opportunity for everyone to contribute their views and ask questions.''

Wheelchair users wanting to attend the Gala Theatre meeting are asked to call the council's community development team on 0191-301 8735.