VILLAGERS in Upper Weardale are to be sent questionnaires on how they think the area could be regenerated.
The questions are part of an initiative run by Durham Rural Community Council to carry out a community appraisal in St John's Chapel and nearby villages and set up a committee to secure funding.
The project is being funded by the North Pennines Leader II programme and One NorthEast's rural development programme.
More than 25 people have already joined a working group to look at issues such as lack of employment, public transport in the evenings, sport and play facilities.
Durham county councillor John Shuttleworth said: "Clearly, there is a lack of jobs and facilities and we have shops closing, so something has to be done."
As well as applying for grant aid, the committee will also be looking towards partnerships with other bodies
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article