THE largest and most ambitious environmental regeneration programme ever seen in west Durham was launched yesterday.

Over the next five years the £5.2m Mineral Valleys Project will set up a network of initiatives to transform natural, cultural and historic landscapes in parts of Weardale and the Wear Valley.

Linked with new tourist opportunities, including the Weardale Railway, the project should bring big economic benefits to more than 30 communities by restoring natural habitats, encouraging wildlife and opening up the countryside for more people to enjoy.

It will offer work-based training and opportunities for volunteers.

Residents are being involved in the design and planning process.

The project is being led by English Nature and backed by a £2.8m grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund. There will be matched funding from 50 organisations in the Mineral Valleys Partnership, including Durham County Council, Groundwork West Durham and Wear Valley District Council.

Writer and broadcaster Eric Robson launched the programme yesterday at Jubilee Meadows, Willington, which is the first of a number of projects to transform derelict landscapes in the area.

On the ancient flood meadow surrounding the former pit village, a rubble slope and flat grassland is being turned into meadows, wetlands and woodland.

They will be decorated with art features and linked by footpaths suitable for people of all ages and abilities.

Other schemes will include a nature reserve at Harehope Quarry, near Frosterley, wetland habitats linking West Auckland and Ramshaw, and a wild wetlands scheme at the Low Barns Nature Reserve, Witton-le-Wear.

The project will target parts of the Durham Coalfield, the River Gaunless and Stanley Beck, and will focus on interpreting Roman ruins and supporting examples of diminishing wildlife, including barn owls.

Mr Robson, chairman of the Cumbria Tourist Board, is keen to encourage visitors to the North Pennines area.

He said: "There are many places where tourism is the only economic activity left.

"To be able to link these places, ensure good provision of information and offer a worthwhile experience will allow local people and visitors to celebrate their cultural and natural heritage."