VILLAGERS are invited to have their say on proposed environmental improvements to the heart of their community.

An exhibition has begun outlining proposals affecting Sherburn Village, focusing on the village green area and potential traffic control measures.

Sherburn Parish Council and Durham City Council are seeking the views of local people to the proposed changes.

The exhibition sets out in detail the full plans, which include the reduction of the boundary of Sherburn Conservation Area, so that it focuses on the village's historic and architectural interest.

Councillor Carol Woods, who represents the village on the city council, said: "Sherburn Village was designated as a conservation area because of its distinctive form as a medieval street-green settlement.

"It's down to the nature of the modest rural buildings clustered around the village green.

"One of the council's statutory duties, from time to time, is to review the boundaries of the conservation area.

"This is to reflect the fact that such areas change as development takes place over the years.

"It's a healthy sign of evolution, but it's important to maintain the quality of the original designation, and boundaries may have to change to reflect this."

Within the conservation zone a number of areas have been identified as not displaying any special architectural or historic character.

The 19th Century cottages in New and South streets are so altered it is considered they have lost any special architectural or historic character.

Other sections deemed to have little historic character are in its north-western corner, plus parts of Peart Close and Church Wynd.

The exhibition, at the community centre, runs until Friday, August 13.

The village was designated a conservation area in September 1979.