Views sought to help conserve World Heritage Site

Durham Castle and Cathedral have world heritage status

People have been asked for their views on a new management plan to help conserve a World Heritage Site.

The proposals are in preparation for next year's 40th anniversary of Durham Castle and Durham Cathedral joining Unesco's World Heritage List.

Looking ahead to 2035, it details projects including plans to conserve the castle, restore the cathedral bells and organs, and a commitment to the policy of entry by voluntary donation for visitors.

The public consultation, which closes on 4 December, also invites businesses and organisations to share how the plans would impact them.

The site was inscribed by Unesco in 1986 in recognition of its outstanding universal value, including its "exceptional architecture" and how well preserved it was.

The three main goals in the proposals are to "continue to conserve, share and regenerate the site for posterity", the document said.

'Tourism landmark'

Planners said a 2021 Unesco recommendation to create a buffer zone to protect all the "key views to and from the castle, cathedral and town" would not be followed.

Instead, the setting of the site and its heritage characteristics would be more clearly defined in a technical document, which would be used by developers and property owners.

Karen Allison, Durham County Council's cabinet member for leisure, tourism and high street, said the management plan would ensure the site's Unesco status was protected "while making sure it continues to be a landmark for tourism and investment".

Durham Cathedral, Durham University, St John's College, the council and the City of Durham Trust own and manage the site.

People can respond to the plans online via the council's website, or attend online or in-person meetings.