PEOPLE in Wolsingham are being urged to play a part in a £550,00 revamp of the town's market square.

The centre of Wolsingham will get a £300,000 facelift over the next three years, backed by Durham county and Wear Valley district councils, in partnership with English Heritage.

At the same time, more than £250,000 is being made available to preserve the character of old buildings in the Wolsingham Conservation Area.

Plans for the market place work go on display in the village next week, and residents will be asked for their views.

They can also find out how to apply for money to conserve individual properties through the Heritage Regeneration Grant Scheme.

Chris Tunstall, the county council's director of environment and technical services, said: "The partnership has resulted in a massive cash pledge for Wolsingham, and it is important locals are consulted on what is planned.

"The environmental improvements will enhance the streetscape of Wolsingham itself. The grant scheme means that residents can preserve the character of their own homes."

Once the consultation process is complete, final plans will be drawn up next month before the work is put out to tender.

An exhibition opens at St Thomas Church Hall, in Rectory Lane, on Monday, from noon to 6.45pm, on Tuesday, from noon to 7.15pm, and on Wednesday, between 9.30am and 2pm