Residents Reminded to Talk about their Town

More than 800 people have already given their views about the regeneration of Hebburn.

Residents are reminded that they have just a few weeks left to join the 'Conversation' about plans for the town.

South Tyneside Council launched an eight-week public consultation period last month, asking people how and why they use the town centre and surrounding areas, as well as seeking ideas and suggestions for its future.

Three sub areas were identified as sites for discussion: the town centre, the riverside and the wider surrounding areas.

The consultation outlines the strengths, challenges and opportunities facing each area, and potential options for regeneration and development have been identified.

Pop-up stalls, covered walkways, art or sculpture trails, better lighting and CCTV, play areas, coffee kiosks, family activities and wildlife features are among the ideas that will be offered to help stimulate discussion and gauge opinions.

Cllr Margaret Meling, Lead Member for Economic Growth and Transport, said: "We've had a great response so far, but for anyone who's not yet had their say, there are just a couple of weeks left.

"It is clear that security, vacant buildings and lighting in some parts of the town is something that a lot of residents feel should be addressed.

"People would like to see more restaurants and other venues to eat and drink, and introducing art and sculpture to the town has also proved a popular idea.

"We're keen to hear as many suggestions as possible; we want to know what people like and dislike about the area, what they think is lacking and what they think should be a priority.

"There has been a great deal of both public and private investment in the town centre over the last decade, including the construction of Hebburn Central, the Hebburn Renewable Energy Network, a new Tri-station and an upcoming extra care facility and children's home, as well as housing developments.

"We are gathering this information to help inform a masterplan for the town which  builds on those foundations with new initiatives.

"This is about bringing out the potential of the town and we want to take residents and businesses on that journey with us."

Feedback gathered during the consultation will be used to help inform a masterplan which will be used as a blueprint for future development.

People have already had the opportunity to give their views at a drop-in event, as well as filling out a survey at the town's Christmas lights switch-on. The online survey will be live until midnight on Monday 8 January.

The consultation follows last year's South Shields Conversation which attracted almost 1,300 responses which were used to help develop a masterplan. A further Conversation for Jarrow will be held next year.

To fill in the survey, visit www.ourconversation.co.uk.