AN EXTENSION has been granted to allow work to continue to improve a city centre street.

An English Heritage grant scheme to aid building refurbishment in Durham's North Road has lifted the run-down image of the western side of the city centre over the past three years.

The city council has reached agreement with English Heritage to extend the initiative for a further year, with funding to be matched by the county council.

Grants of up to 40 per cent are available for buildings considered to have existing historic fabric and up to 70 per cent for reinstatement of those with missing architectural features.

The project, Durham City Heritage Economic Regeneration Scheme (Hers), is aimed at conserving the historic character of the Victorian-developed thoroughfare.

Councillor Bob Wynn, lead city council member for regeneration, said: "The scheme has already achieved some notable successes which have enhanced the Hers area."

These include improvments to the Georgian House caf in Crossgate, North Road resurfacing works, and refurbishing windows at North Road Methodist Church.

"It's hoped to be able to build on the success of the initial years to achieve even more in this final year of the scheme," said Coun Wynn.

Further improvement work will be carried out at St Margaret's Church, in Crossgate, with new railings, herbaceous border, pathway resurfacing, as well as improvement of cobbled areas on Crossgate.

Coun Wynn said new applications from private property owners were always welcome, particularly those seeking to enhance shop fronts and business premises.

"Applicants are strongly encouraged to contact the council to discuss their project and how the Hers scheme may be able to help."

Tracey Ingle, design and conservation officer, said: "Durham is a thriving city and North Road, as well as perhaps Claypath, are one or two areas where we have independent traders and where we want to support people in situ.

"Durham has enough for everyone, with national chains and things like art shops and bicycle repair shops, and that's part of its vitality."

Application forms for assistance from Hers are available from Elaine Gray, design and conservation officer at the city council's Byland Lodge office in Hawthorn Terrace, or by ringing 0191-301 8727.