THE public is to be asked to have an input into a plan being devised as a blueprint for a city's successful development.

"Vision for the City" aims to point the way Durham develops during the next 20 years, to ensure it flourishes as a major tourist destination.

It is being devised by the Durham City Partnership, made up of the city and county councils, regional development agency One NorthEast, Durham University and the dean and chapter of Durham Cathedral.

Among the first steps taken by the partnership was to recruit a small, but representative group of local people, known as The Voices.

All those involved either live, work or study in Durham and have helped to build an in-depth picture of everyday life in the city centre.

Now the partnership is to seek wider views, with the launch of a full consultation programme.

County council leader Ken Manton said: "I'm looking forward to hearing more about the issues and ideas for the city, and will be encouraging everyone to play an active part. Durham city has a very proud history and we all want to make sure that pride in our city, and success continues long into the future."

City council leader Fraser Reynolds said: "It's going to be really exciting over the next three months. We will listen to all the views put forward and we'll feed back to everyone."

Public meetings will be held, plus exhibitions and other events to ensure people have the opportunity to have their say. Details of events are expected to be announced shortly.