I WOULD like to thank the Durham County Council Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Cllr Carl Marshall, for his reply to my question at the last full council meeting regarding the 1960s flat roof and decaying shopping mall, Festival Walk, at Spennymoor.

I have no objection to Aldi’s proposed relocation to the bottom of the site but I will object to the refurbishment of the top of the site as it would be a waste of money. Spennymoor shoppers deserve a completely new build for the entire site.

There was no mention in the reply about my suggestion that the High Street should be reconnected with traditional shops to blend in with the rest of Spennymoor. This idea has public support, and would vastly reduce the shop space capacity.

I understand Aldi hopes to re-let its existing premises, and I hope the remaining shops on Festival Walk are given consideration when new plans are drawn up.

These plans should shortly go out to public consultation, and I would ask the public to become involved as this is the main regeneration priority for Spennymoor. It should vastly improve the centre of Spennymoor and help attract shoppers and retailers to this important shopping area.

Ben Ord, Spennymoor