This week we have been thinking about Aycliffe’s Regeneration and Planning. Your input is also needed on transport links and milkmen, and the PCP wants your spare wool. Plus there are some interesting things to do next weekend.

All this week’s stories are on the internet and you can find out more about them on my blog at: bit.ly/CNB9318

COUNCIL

• Thanks to our Council workers, who went the extra mile during the recent weather, and are still working to clear up after it.

• Aycliffe Regeneration – what do we need?

• Planning news – the new National Planning Policy Framework.

• A visit to Chapter Homes.

• Good news on County Durham secondary school choices – 95% got their first choice.

• Latest unemployment figures very slightly up.

• Middridge Parish Council meeting, Monday 5 March.

COMMUNITY

• County Durham & Darlington Fire & Rescue Service has won the Public Sector Transformation silver award for Fire & Rescue Service of the year.

• Two important transport consultations which need your input.

• Should we/ could we bring back the milkman – have your say!

• Help Durham Shine … and maybe win a VIP Visitor Pass.

• Healthwatch County Durham’s latest newsletter is out – health screening, pharmacy services, the Great North Care Record and maternity services.

• The PCP needs wool!

Wednesday 14 March is No Smoking Day so: get in touch on 0800 772 0565; text QUIT to 66777; or email info@smokefreelifecountydurham.co.uk

• Owen Dickinson Politics Show on Aycliffe Radio, 8pm, first Friday of every month – plus this month’s podcast.

• Here has been good Business Park news this week from Gestamp and Crafter’s Companion, Stiller and Hitachi.

THINGS TO DO NEXT WEEKEND

• Story-telling about the Anglo-Saxons and Vikings (3+), part of the St Cuthbert Festival at Durham Cathedral South Transept, drop in 10:30am-4pm, Saturday 17 March – perhaps time your visit to see also the St Cuthbert procession from Durham Market Place to the Cathedral at about 2pm.

• Japanese manga cartoons (5-11s), Durham Oriental Museum, 1-3pm Saturday 17 March.

• Steampunk/sci-fi Fantaz-magoria, Locomotion Museum Shildon, 10am-4pm 17-18 March.