OWNERS and occupiers of historic buildings in Durham City have been invited to find out more about an economic regeneration scheme operating in the area.

The public meeting for residents of Claypath and Gilesgate will be held at the Town Hall, Market Place, at 7.30pm on Thursday.

It will include a progress report on work started last year.

A Durham City council spokesman said: "The first year of Claypath and Gilesgate Heritage Economic Regeneration Scheme was very successful.

"The full year's fund was allocated to several private dwellings, assisting with works such as the repair of roofs and rainwater gutters, and the reinstatement of sash and case windows.

"A substantial grant from the first year's funding allocation has been offered to the Gilesgate Community and Welfare Association to carry out roof repairs to Vane Tempest Hall, an important Grade II listed building."

The funding scheme is a partnership between Durham City Council, Durham County Council and English Heritage, providing £80,000 of funding for the historic areas of Claypath and Gilesgate.

In the coming year it is hoped that there will be a concentration on environmental improvement works, and encouraging commercial occupants within the target area to participate in the scheme.