Peterlee
Peterlee was planned as one of the first generation of post war 'new towns' in the 1950s with the intention of providing alternative sources of employment and housing to replace a declining coal mining industry. The loss of the remaining collieries and associated support industries has created high levels of unemployment and the urgent need to develop new employment opportunities.
Much of the employment in the area is now focused on industrial estates. The creation of three Enterprise Zone sites at Peterlee North West, South West and Bracken Hill have provided scope for new jobs. However, these sites are some distance from where people live and surveys undertaken by a partnership, including the East Durham Business Leaders Forum, have found that people without access to private transport are not finding employment.
The private sector owner of most of the town centre estates is keen to improve the town’s image and has embarked on a major programme of refurbishment and renewal. The redevelopment has included the provision of a new bus station and associated traffic management measures.
Future measures will include:
- Development of green commuter plans under the Travelwise initiative.
- Improved access for public transport users through bus route quality partnerships with Arriva North East, Go North East and the county council which will include provision for ultra-low floor buses.
- Measures for cyclists and walkers to enable them to travel to work/school in safety and security.
- Improved conditions for pedestrians with limited mobility.
- Implementation of traffic management and traffic calming to reduce the impact of vehicles.
