Demolition starts to create new walled garden in Spennymoor

Durham County Council has commenced construction work at Cheapside in Spennymoor after acquiring land for regeneration. 

The demolition of the five empty buildings will pave the way for a new walled garden and is expected to take up to seven weeks. The local authority has also revealed plans to demolish the former library and garage buildings later this year. 

Areas including Festival Walk and the marketplace will also be redeveloped as part of the local programme of upgrading town centres.
 How the new garden area could look (Image: Durham County Council)

News of the redevelopment comes after it was revealed Spennymoor would benefit from £20m government funding to improve towns. A new town board has recently been set up to oversee the delivery of the new investment plan. 

The funding will be put towards high street heritage and regeneration; transport and connectivity; and safety and security.

Traders the Local Democracy Reporting Service spoke to in 2023 said they hoped the funding would improve the appearance of the town centre and help businesses advertise to shoppers. Danni Jackson, of Bloom n Witches, said: “Anything that makes us more accessible and noticeable by bringing more people in can only be a positive. 

Cllr Elizabeth Scott, cabinet member for economy and partnerships, said: “We want towns and villages across County Durham to thrive and we are committed to investing in regeneration schemes that will make a positive difference for years to come.

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The demolition of the five empty buildings will pave the way for a new walled garden (Image: Sarah Caldecott)

Durham County Council has commenced construction work at Cheapside in Spennymoor after acquiring land for regeneration. (Image: Sarah Caldecott)

“This is certainly the motivation behind the work we are undertaking in Spennymoor, where a combination of public realm enhancements and the creation of new and improved amenities are helping to revitalise this important part of the town centre.

“It’s fantastic the demolition of the derelict units in Cheapside is now underway. This will allow for the creation of a walled garden, which will provide a safe and welcoming place for residents and visitors of all ages to enjoy.”

The council also said  the recent refurbishment of the town’s leisure centre, as well as an upgraded swimming pool, soft play and cafe are beneficial for the area.