Town unites to put green issues first

A federation has been formed in Chester-le-Street, made up of residents' associations, environmental groups and other parties to ensure green issues are the top of decision-makers' agendas.

A meeting was last week for any groups interested in joining the federation and it will be officially launched at another meeting in September.

Project officer James Cokill, from Durham Biodiversity Partnership, said so far six groups from across the district had signed up and are still looking for others to join them.

He said: "Some are environmental groups and some are residents' groups that have environmental concerns for their area and this is about thrashing out issues they're concerned about.

"The environment is something everyone is interested in and working on helping the environment is something people can get immediate benefit from, you can see trees growing and enjoy the green spaces."

The federation will have a say on the Local Strategic Partnership run by Chester-le-Street District Council and its views on the environment and wildlife will be taken into account in the council's long term vision for the whole district.

Members will also work on environmental projects, such as improving local wildlife habitats and protecting areas of greenery.

Mr Cokill said: "Some of the projects we may consider are things such as helping wildlife on Waldridge Fell and there's issues we will be looking at such as making sure housing developments are environmentally-friendly and social problems are tackled such as vandalism to tree planting schemes."

Several groups are already active across the district as part of the Biodiversity and Community Strategies Project, run by the Durham Biodiversity Partnership and supported by English Nature and Chester-le-Street District Council. Funding is available for projects.

To apply for the funds, for help in setting up an environmental group or to join the town's new federation, contact Mr Cokill on (0191) 584 3112.