Spennymoor residents invited to join board to decide how to spend £20m funding

Spennymoor is one of more than 50 ‘overlooked’ UK towns each given £20million by the government

Residents of a County Durham town set to receive a £20m boost from the government are being invited to join a new board that will decide how the money should be spent. The Spennymoor Town Board, which is currently being formed, will play a key role in the ongoing regeneration town. The board will include representatives from the community, public and private sectors who will work together to create a new vision for the town.

The funding could be used for a variety of projects, including reviving the high street, tackling anti-social behaviour, improving transport and boosting the economy. Over £7 million has already been invested in the area, with redevelopment at the former Festival Walk shopping centre site and the town’s leisure centre among the projects funded.

Durham County Council is now looking to appoint the first leader of the board. The council is encouraging individuals with a “passion and commitment” to developing Spennymoor to apply for the position by February 29. The ideal candidate will have experience working in the public and private sector or in a community leadership role, according to the council.

The Chair of the board will play a leading role in bringing members together, guiding the development of an investment plan and overseeing the delivery of the identified projects.

Councillor Elizabeth Scott, who is in charge of the economy and partnerships, said: “Serving as Chair on the Spennymoor Town Board is a fantastic opportunity for someone with a passion for the town to not only oversee the creation of a new vision, but to help make that vision a reality.

“They will ensure the views of local residents and business owners are at the heart of the investment plan, and that the funding is used in a way that benefits the community and its economy for generations to come.”

The role is for two years, starting now and ending on March 31, 2026. If you want to apply, send your CV and a letter to [email protected].