The prospect of creating a new multi purpose centre at Easington Colliery moved a huge step nearer when the village's Old Miners Welfare Scheme became one of a handful to be accepted onto an innovative national initiative.

Easington is the sixth scheme from the North-East and one of 25 nationally to be included in a special programme which is being run by CISWO (Coal Industry Social Welfare Organisation) .

As part of the project a partnership including the Trustees of the Welfare Scheme, CISWO, Easington Single Regeneration Initiative, Easington Colliery Parish Council, Easington District Council, Durham County Council and the local community has been formed with the aim of making the "new Welfare'' the heart of the community