AN open day for residents of a North-East estate is being held next week to discuss improvements to the area.

More than £500,000 has been earmarked, through the Single Regeneration Budget, for environmental improvements and a community building on Stockton's Hardwick estate.

The open day is being held at Hardwick Community Centre, on Tuesday, from 11am to 7pm. Officers from the council and the community group, Hardwick Tomorrow, will discuss the scheme with residents.

The environmental proposals, which are mainly concerned with the sites where housing is being cleared, are likely to include planting, pathway lighting, and recreational facilities.

The community building proposal is being developed by Hardwick Tomorrow to improve and extend the services it is able to offer.

Councillor Bob Cook, cabinet member for regeneration said: "We are committed to consultation. We want the people of Hardwick to come to the open day and tell us what they think of the ideas for treatment of the cleared sites, and the general environmental proposals."

Betty McClurg, chairwoman of Hardwick Tomorrow, said: "These proposals show that the opportunity exists for Hardwick to develop a positive future."

The schemes are being prepared by Stockton Borough Council and Hardwick Tomorrow, on behalf of the Hardwick Development Group, which includes local agencies, councillors and residents.