THE latest phase of a scheme to transform a former mining village was unveiled this week.

Durham county councillor Bill Firby, who represents Deerness Valley, performed a ceremony to launch the development, in Ushaw Moor, Durham.

The idea came about after residents expressed concerns about speeding traffic, and ways of solving the problem.

The project's centrepiece, built across one of the roads, is a metal sculpture by Graeme Hopper, who has been commissioned to produce a series of artistic features throughout the Lower Deerness Valley.

At Ushaw Moor, sculpted ornamental trees stand within an area that includes more traditional landscaping and extends across the village green towards a staggered crossroads.

The area is being gradually transformed to make it free from overhead power lines, safer for pedestrians and road users, and brighter and more attractive.

The latest developments are the product of a collaboration between the city and county councils, County Durham Environmental Trust, Brandon and Byshottles Parish Council, and residents. They are linked with a £900,000 Single Regeneration Budget grant awarded to Ushaw Moor, Broom Park, New Brancepeth and Bearpark over five years.

As part of an overall regeneration programme, houses are being built, lighting and shop fronts improved and the derelict Station Hotel demolished.

Coun Firby described the latest phase of the village transformation as "one of a number of schemes which are designed to provide a long-lasting contribution to better surroundings for the residents of Ushaw Moor, as well as others who use its facilities or regularly travel through the village".