Derelict buildings make way for community garden

A walled community garden will be built on the site in Spennymoor

Derelict buildings are being demolished to make way for a walled community garden.

The work in Spennymoor is part of a Durham County Council project aimed at creating a "more vibrant atmosphere" in the town.

The council recently acquired three pieces of land in Spennymoor for regeneration purposes.

Five derelict units on land in Cheapside are now being demolished with the work expected to last seven weeks.

Councillor Elizabeth Scott said: "We want towns and villages across County Durham to thrive and we are committed to investing in regeneration schemes."

The walled garden will provide a "safe and welcoming place for residents and visitors", according to Ms Scott.

It follows work already carried out in parts of the town centre including the market place and former Festival Walk shopping area.

A car park has been created and new paving, bollards and lighting installed in the area.

The town's leisure centre has also undergone refurbishment and now incorporates a library and soft play area.