PEOPLE have been asked for their views on the best way to transform a city.

Consultation was held to help determine the future of the riverside in Durham City.

Plans have been unveiled to demolish Milburngate House, which houses staff from the Passport Office and National Savings and Investments.

An exhibition outlining proposals for the area was held in Durham Town Hall, on Friday and Saturday.

Trevor Coppock, 76, of North End, Durham City, said: “It was said at the time it was built that Milburngate House was a monstrosity.

“It should not have been built in the first place. I think it needs to be looked into carefully and to have a very sympathetic approach to the city.”

Displays showed how the area could accommodate shops and leisure facilities, family homes or apartment blocks.

Derek Brown, 54, of Whitesmocks, Durham City, said: “I would prefer to see the retail and leisure approach, with a bit of housing and cafes on the front to take advantage of the riverside setting.

“I do not like the high density housing from the tower block approach. It has got to be very sensitively done and this way would benefit the local economy.”

The exhibition was organised by architectural firm Taylor Young, which is leading the project.

Urban designer Andrew Clarke said: “Most people are keen to see something happen on the site.

“It is vital that people get involved because we are not pushing any one solution for the site.

“This is a genuine consultation where we want to know what people think and get some feedback for our final design brief.”