A new management plan aimed at conserving the beauty of Durham Castle and Durham Cathedral for generations to come is now complete.
Durham County Council’s Cabinet will be advised next week of the completion of a new World Heritage Site (WHS) Management Plan for the Durham City landmark site and asked to endorse the Management Vision and Objectives.
The castle and cathedral were the first UK cultural heritage site to be included in UNESCO’s World Heritage List in 1986.
The new plan sets out a vision for the site to remain a landmark for Durham, with key aims to conserve, share and regenerate it for future generations.
It has been produced by the World Heritage Site Manager, with support from the council, and the process has been overseen by the WHS Strategic Partnership Board, which includes the local authority as a key stakeholder. It has also been subject to public consultation.
Containing a refreshed vision, the new plan is underpinned by a set of objectives divided into four themes: conserve, share, regenerate, and research, which the council will play a key role in delivering.
Cllr Karen Allison, Durham County Council Cabinet member for leisure, tourism, regeneration, high street, said: “This new WHS Management Plan is vital for ensuring that the beautiful Durham Castle and Durham Cathedral continue to be protected and preserved for future generations to enjoy in years to come.
“Extensive consultation has been undertaken during the development of the latest version of the plan to make sure it reflects what matters most to residents, communities and visitors. We’re proud of the role we are playing in conserving this iconic landmark.”
Once adopted, the Management Plan will also help in the review of the County Durham Plan and support in the delivery of wider regeneration and tourism plans, including the Durham City Strategic Places Plan, County Durham Vision 2035, and Durham Destination Management Plan 2023 to 2030.
