A PUBLIC meeting is to be held next week to allow residents to give their views on the planned economic regeneration of Stockton town centre.

Consultancy company Drivers Jonas has spent three months consulting groups in the town centre, and has identified issues that it believes needs to be addressed.

They will be highlighted at the meeting, which will take place on Wednesday, January 21, in Stockton Central Library, from 4pm to 6pm.

The meeting will be chaired by Stockton Borough Council leader Councillor Bob Gibson.

The consultants will present the findings, and those taking part will then go into groups to look at topics such as transport, shopping, leisure and historical issues, followed by a general debate at the end of the meeting.

Coun Gibson said: "We want to see anyone and everyone who has a view about the economic regeneration of the town centre at this meeting.

"This is their chance to have their say about what is important to them and what they think is important for the future of Stockton town centre.

"Stockton's town centre is at the heart of the local community, for shopping, leisure, entertainment and for tourism.

"We want it to remain that way, and this study is the first step in ensuring its future."

The study is needed to ensure the town centre is competitive with others in the area.

It will identify potential growth, and a development strategy will be designed.