A RUNDOWN area is to be given top priority for a town's spending, creating the possibility of a regeneration showcase.

In response to problems of derelict housing, vandalism, drug-taking and drinking on the Trinity Estate, in North Ormesby, Middlesbrough Borough Council decided in June to demolish almost 275 homes.

The only properties to be spared were in Whickham Close. The council also agreed to look at how the whole area could be redeveloped.

As the site is at the centre of other major projects, such as the development of the Middlehaven area, proposals to improve the Cargo Fleet/A66 interchange and retail plans for Cargo Fleet, it was considered important that improvements be carried out quickly.

As a result, the North Ormesby Neighbourhood Action Initiative has been proposed, covering the core of the North Ormesby ward.

Over the first year, the focus will be on development opportunities in and around Trinity Crescent, moving to the wider area in the next two to three years.

Neighbourhood Renewal Funding will be used to pay for two project workers, and the council will provide £10,000 to enlist a consultant to draw up a design for the area.

One of its features is likely to be a medical village, bringing together five GP practices and possibly an optician, pharmacy and dental surgery.

The health authority has chosen a developer, and hopes to site the village in the Trinity Crescent area. It aims to start work early next year and open the village in early 2003.

The market square in North Ormesby has been identified as a likely focal point for the redevelopment, and it is hoped that Holy Trinity Church will also play a key role.

The church is examining options to revamp its hall and the possibility of a National Lottery bid to fund the work.

John Foster, chief executive of Middlesbrough council, said the community's views would be taken on board.

"Community engagement and partnership working will be a fundamental element of the initiative," he said. "It could form a showcase project for Middlesbrough."