Regeneration will bring new homes to village

Vacant buildings that have blighted a County Durham village can now be demolished and replaced with homes thanks to a £6m investment.

Durham County Council has allocated £4.5m from its Towns and Villages Investment Plan for a major regeneration scheme in Horden – and boosts the £1.5m already set aside for the project.

The funding will allow progress on a plan created for the village to address issues with housing, the environment and access to amenities – with a particular focus on the ‘numbered streets’ – which have had problems with long-term empty homes and absentee landlords.

During public consultation, the plan was met with widespread support, especially proposals to clear a significant number of vacant and neglected properties.

The £6m will be used to acquire and demolish buildings and allow new homes to be built.

Cllr Kevin Shaw, cabinet member for strategic housing and assets at Durham County Council, said: “We know there is a really strong sense of community in Horden with many residents who care deeply about the village and its future. Unfortunately, a longstanding problem with absent landlords is having a huge impact on how residents feel about the area and this project will enable us to make a real difference to the quality of life in Horden.”

Cllr Carl Marshall, Cabinet member for economic regeneration, said: “The work we are undertaking in Horden is what our Towns and Villages programme is all about – looking at the needs of each community and then working with residents, local partners and other organisations to bring about positive change.”