A COUNCIL is asking residents whether it should buy a replica pit wheel to create a new mining memorial.

Spennymoor Town Council was approached by the owner of the sculpture, which was built to feature in a Great North Run event, to see if it wanted to buy it.

It was suggested that the wheel could be installed on a roundabout in Spennymoor and raised at a meeting, when the purchase price was said to be around £11,000 but that its installation could be more than £100,000.

Members heard that drawing up a plan and working out exact financial implications could itself cost £6,000.

The town has a strong mining heritage and a tradition of commemorating that, which includes housing Durham Mining Museum in Spennymoor Town Hall, a heritage banner and supporting Durham Miners’ Gala.

Some members are thought to like the idea but others feel the council has greater spending priorities so the council decided to consult the public over the proposal.

Leader Councillor Ian Geldard said: “Whichever way the public vote in this consultation, I will stand up and represent that view in the chamber.

“If that is not something the people want then we won’t engage with the project.”

He believes improving play areas and community events, priorities raised during public consultation last year, are more important.

Independent Councillor Kevin Thompson said: “We feel we already do enough to preserve our important mining heritage and the money could go on better things.”

To share your views on the proposal email enquiries@spennymoortowncouncil.gov.uk