Council to discuss 'vital' plan to protect Durham World Heritage Site

A 'vital' plan to protect the future of Durham Cathedral and Durham Castle is to be discussed by the council. <i>(Image: NORTH NEWS)</i>
A 'vital' plan to protect the future of Durham Cathedral and Durham Castle is to be discussed by the council. (Image: NORTH NEWS)
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A 'vital' plan to protect the future of Durham Cathedral and Castle is set to be discussed by council leaders.

Durham County Council’s cabinet will consider the new World Heritage Site Management Plan, which is aimed at conserving the beauty of the historic site 'for generations to come'.

Councillor Karen Allison, cabinet member for leisure, tourism, regeneration, and high street, said: "This new WHS Management Plan is vital for ensuring that the beautiful Durham Castle and Durham Cathedral continue to be protected and preserved for future generations to enjoy in years to come.

"Extensive consultation has been undertaken during the development of the latest version of the plan to make sure it reflects what matters most to residents, communities and visitors.

"We’re proud of the role we are playing in conserving this iconic landmark."

The plan sets out a refreshed vision and objectives for the site, which includes Durham Cathedral and Castle, the first UK cultural heritage site to be included on UNESCO’s World Heritage List in 1986.

Objectives are grouped into four themes: conserve, share, regenerate, and research.

The plan was produced by a World Heritage Site Manager with support from Durham County Council and was overseen by the WHS Strategic Partnership Board.



Members of the public were also consulted as part of the planning process.

Once adopted, the plan will help in the review of the County Durham Plan and support in the delivery of wider regeneration and tourism plans, including the Durham City Strategic Places Plan, County Durham Vision 2035, and the Durham Destination Management Plan 2023 to 2030.

Cabinet members will be asked to endorse the plan at a cabinet meeting on September 16.

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