PEOPLE are being asked to give their views on proposed changes to a coastal town’s conservation area as part of public consultation.

Durham County Council is working towards the second stage of its grant application to the Heritage Lottery Fund for a heritage scheme in Seaham.

The authority hopes the project will restore the town centre’s historic character and make it as attractive, vibrant and interesting a place as possible in which to live, work and visit.

As part of the development funding phase, the council has undertaken a review of the Seaham town centre conservation area appraisal and management plan.

Following a public consultation event held in November, a draft document has been produced which includes proposed changes to the designated Seaham conservation area boundary.

The council are hosting a drop-in session at Seaham Library today from 2.30pm to 6.30pm to answer any specific queries relating to the conservation area or about the project.

Councillor Carl Marshall, Durham County Council’s cabinet member for economic regeneration, said: “Conservation areas are an important tool to help the council maintain and enhance a high quality environment. It is important we review these areas to ensure they are properly looked after, and that significant elements are recognised and preserved correctly.

“Our officers have worked closely with the community to make sure people have had their voices heard, and opinions considered.”

From tomorrow, the draft document explaining the changes further will be available online at www.durham.gov.uk/seahamtownscapeheritage and a hard copy of the document will also be available for viewing at Seaham Library.

Comments should be made by Thursday, March 28 to Seaham Townscape Heritage Project, Regeneration and Local Services, Durham County Council, Green Lane, Spennymoor, DL16 6JQ or by email to SeahamTownscapeHeritage@durham.gov.uk