livin Aycliffe New Town

Community Plan 2012-14

with the community at heart Revised March 2013

2

Equality and Diversity livin aims to ensure that Equality and Diversity lies at the heart of our business and allows our customers to access high quality services tailored to their individual diverse needs. It is our policy to provide access to services and employment equality to all, irrespective of age, race or ethnic origin, gender, marital or family status, religious or philosophical belief or political opinion, disability, nationality or sexual orientation. As part of our commitment we, and our working partners, aim to treat everyone as equal citizens and recognise, support and value the diversity of the communities in which they live.

Contact us

Communities Team

livin, Farrell House, Arlington Way

DurhamGate, Spennymoor, Co Durham, DL16 6NL

0800 587 4538 (free from a landline) or 0300 111 2234 (low rate

call from a mobile phone depending on your network)

3

Based on the intelligence contained within each Plan livin has been able to rank the

local community based on; Bronze (potential), Silver (aspiring) or Gold (performing).

This will enable livin to see which communities require more immediate and intensive

interventions whilst ensuring there are mechanisms in place to maintain Gold

standards.

Indicator Ranking

Housing Market Affordability SILVER

Tenancy Turnover BRONZE

Demand for livin housing GOLD

Average Repair Costs Per Property BRONZE

Long Term Unemployment 1

(6 - 12 months) GOLD

Average Household Income 2 GOLD

Rental Debit BRONZE

Educational Attainment (5 GCSE’s Grade C & Above)

GOLD

Environmental Assessment SILVER

Overall Community Ranking

SILVER

1 Data used to compile this ranking relates to the West, Greenfield & Middridge and

Woodham Ward. Census Data collection limitations have restricted this information

being available for Aycliffe New Town only.

2 Data used to compile this ranking relates to the Woodham, West, Greenfield &

Middridge Wards. Census Data collection limitations have restricted this information

being available for Aycliffe New Town only.

Community Ranking- Aycliffe New Town

4

Page No.

Section 1 Community Profile 7

1.1 Demographics 8

1.1.1 Population – Now and in the Future 8

1.1.2 Mosaic Community Profile 13

1.1.3 Religion and ethnicity 14

1.2 Housing 16

1.2.1 Housing Tenure 16

1.2.2 Average House Prices 18

1.2.3 Current Supply and Demand for Housing 21

1.2.4 livin Tenancy Sustainment 25

1.2.5 Vacant / Abandoned properties 26

1.2.6 Future Demand for Housing 28

1.2.7 Average cost of repairs to livin properties 30

1.2.8 Average Cost of Improvement Programmes 31

for livin properties

1.3 Crime and Antisocial Behaviour 33

1.4 Economy and Employment 38

1.4.1 Economic Activity 38

1.4.2 Jobseekers Allowance claimants 43

1.4.3 Department for Works and Pensions Key 44

Benefit Claimants

1.4.4 Household income 45

1.4.5 Vehicle ownership and cost of travel 45

1.4.6 Rental debit in livin properties 46

Contents

5

Page No.

1.5 Access to Services and Facilities 48

1.6 Health and Well Being 56

1.7 Education and Training 60

1.8 Reputation of the Neighbourhood and Community 64

Cohesion

1.9 Local Environment 65

Section 2 Community Priorities 69

Section 3 Review of the Community Plan 70

Appendix 1 livin Strategic Framework and Regulatory 71

Requirements

Appendix 2 Methodology 77

6

Page No.

Figure 1.1 Aerial overview of Aycliffe New Town 8

Figure 1.2 Age Profile of population in Aycliffe New Town 9

Figure 1.3 Household profiles for Aycliffe New Town 10

Figure 1.4 Population projections for Durham County 11

Figure 1.5 Age pyramid projections for Durham County 12

Figure 1.6 Housing tenure in Aycliffe New Town 17

Figure 1.7 Average house prices in Aycliffe New Town 19

Figure 1.8 livin stock in Aycliffe New Town 21

Figure 1.9 Age profile of livin lead tenants in Aycliffe New Town 22

Figure 1.10 livin properties available for let during the period 23

1 October 2009 to 30 September 2010

in Aycliffe New Town

Figure 1.11 livin tenancy sustainment in Aycliffe New Town 26

Figure 1.12 Newton Aycliffe Beat Team reported incidents 33

of crime and antisocial behaviour in the Wards of West,

Greenfield & Middridge and Woodham during

December 2010 to December 2011

Figure 1.13: Reported cases to livin of nuisance 34

and antisocial behaviour in Aycliffe New Town

1 April 2010 to 31 March 2011

Figure 1.14 Economic activity in Aycliffe New Town 38

Figure 1.15 Occupation profile of 16 to 74 year olds in 41

Aycliffe New Town

Figure 1.16 Economic inactivity in Aycliffe New Town 42

Figure 1.17 Jobseekers Allowance claimants in Aycliffe New Town 43

Figure 1.18 Breakdown of persons residing in Aycliffe New Town 44

claiming key benefits

Figure 1.19 Levels of health in Aycliffe New Town 56

Figure 1.20 Educational attainment within Aycliffe New Town 60

Figure 1.21 Route of Environmental Assessment 67

List of Figures

7

Newton Aycliffe (birth of New Town)

Newton Aycliffe is a town in County Durham, England. Founded in 1947 under the

New Towns Act of 1946, it is the oldest new town in the north of England. Prior to the

Newtown development, Aycliffe (originally 'Acley') was the site of a Saxon

settlement. The name Acley came from the Saxon words: 'Ac', meaning oak, and

'ley', meaning 'a clearing'. Aycliffe was the location of a church synods in AD 782 and

AD 789. Another old name was 'Yacley'. The town's motto is Latin for "Not the Least,

but the Greatest we Seek".

At Aycliffe an enormous Royal Ordnance Factory was built. Fifteen thousand people

were engaged in the manufacture of munitions in a vast complex of bunkers on a

650-acre site. The factories were largely staffed by woman and these ladies were

dubbed the ‘Aycliffe Angels’, who braved incredible dangers inside the factories.

There was scarcely any population living in the immediate vicinity.

When the ordnance factory was closed after the war the government turned the site

into one of its trading estates. It is flat and well served with transport facilities being

situated next to the A1 trunk road together with a major railway centre with two

stations adjoining the estate. Within a few months of the creation of the trading

estate more than 30 firms had moved in. The area immediately to the north was

designated as a new town with the prime function of providing housing for the

workers of the estate's burgeoning industries. The town later became generally

known as Newton Aycliffe to distinguish it from the small village of Aycliffe on the

south-west corner of the estate.

The fact that Newton Aycliffe started from scratch means that during development

there was a complete absence of community facilities. By 1954 the population was

nearly 5,000 but there were still no public buildings or community facilities.

The reason why the new town grew rapidly in spite of the dearth of facilities is quite

simple. The cause has been the expansion of employment on the industrial estate. In

fact the Development Corporation has not yet succeeded in accommodating a

population to match the level of employment. The only important thing that the

residents of Newton Aycliffe have in common is the fact that most of them have a job

in the town or on the estate.

One of the most valuable contributions of the new towns is that they have given

people the opportunity to live and work in the same area. There could be a

considerable extension of opportunities of this kind if common housing policies could

be operated by Newton Aycliffe and the other local authorities in the nearby areas.

Section 1 Community Profile

8

With more local migrants the community spirit within Aycliffe could become as

apparent as it is in many of the other new towns.

Figure 1.1: Aerial overview of Aycliffe New Town (Photograph does include Aycliffe Old Town) Source: Ordnance Survey

1.1 Demographics

1.1.1 Population- Now and in the future

The population within Aycliffe New Town is

approximately 12,507. 48.99% of the total

population are male with the remaining 51.01%

being female (Census, 2001, Lower Level Super

Output area (LLSOA), KS01, 009A, 009B, 009D,

009E, 009F, 010A, 010B, 010C, 010D).

Population data indicates that Aycliffe New Town has a diverse range of age groups.

There is a higher percentage (55.2%) of persons aged between 25 to 64 years old

living in the community when compared to the Durham County (53.3%) and North

East (52.6%) averages.

The population of Aycliffe

New Town is approximately

12,507.

(Census, 2001)

9

To facilitate good levels of economic activity within the area it is essential that a high

percentage of the population are of working age and contributing to the local

economy through employment or actively seeking work.

The persons aged 16 to 24 years (11%) is comparable with both the Durham County

and North East averages. Those residents aged 65 years or more (9.2%) living

within the community is significantly lower when compared to the Durham County

and North East averages.

The population of residents aged 0 to 15 years (24.6%) remains higher than the

Durham County and North East averages.

Figure 1.2: Age profile of population in Aycliffe New Town Source: Census 2001, LLSOA KS02, 009A, 009B, 009D, 009E, 009F, 010A, 010B, 010C, 010D.

The main household types within Aycliffe New Town are married couples with

dependent child(ren), (23.17%), followed by households consisting of married

couples with no dependent children (22.76%) then one person households (22.34%).

24.6

11.0

55.2

9.2 19.1

11.0

53.3

16.5

19.8

11.1

52.6

16.6

0.0

10.0

20.0

30.0

40.0

50.0

60.0

Persons aged0-15

Persons aged16-24

Persons aged25-64

Persons aged65 years or

over

%

Aycliffe New Town

County Durham

North East

10

Figure 1.3: Household Profile for Aycliffe New Town

Source: Census 2001, LLSOA, KS20, 009A, 009B, 009D, 009E, 009F, 010A, 010B, 010C, 010D.

This percentage of married couple households with dependent children (23.17%) is

significantly higher than both the Durham County (17.68%) and North East (16.94%)

averages. Married couple households with no dependent children, (22.76%), is

comparable with both the Durham County (23.44%) and the North East (21.87%)

averages whereas lone parent households with dependent children (10.01%) is

higher than both Durham County (6.65%) and North East (7.55%) averages.

The higher percentage of married couples and families living in Aycliffe New Town

may be attributed to the age profile of the community which indicates that 66.2% of

residents are aged 16 to 64 years.

Trend based projections from DCC indicate that the County wide population will

initially decline by 2016 before increasing to an estimated total of 501,625 in 2026

(Strategic Housing Market Assessment, DCC, 2010). Figure 1.4 illustrates the actual

population totals within Durham County for the period 1981 to 2007. Future

population figures up to the year 2026, as projected by DCC, are shown in pink on

the graph.

23.17

22.76

4.62 10.68 0.20

10.01

22.34

1.97

1.91 2.35

Married couple household withdependent child(ren)

Married couple household withno dependent child(ren)

Cohabiting couple householdwith dependent child(ren)

Cohabiting couple householdwith no dependent child(ren)

Lone parent household withdependent child(ren)

Lone parent household with nodependent child(ren)

One person household

Multi person household: Allstudent

Multi person household: Allother

Multi person household: Withdependent child(ren)

11

Figure 1.4: Population projections for Durham County

Source: Durham County Strategic Housing Market Assessment, 2010

The late 1950’s through to the early 1970’s saw a steady rise in the number of births

throughout the Country. The progression of this ‘baby boom’ period has caused, and

will continue to cause, different challenges to the County’s population.

Currently this generation falls entirely within the

economically active age group (generally 16 to 64

years), but shortly will begin the transition into

retirement and will be the main driver of an ageing

population over the coming years. Increasing life

expectancy will also contribute towards the

County’s growing elderly population. DCC’s age

pyramid (figure 1.5) highlights the expected increase in the 65 plus age group and

decline in the economically active age group by 2026. The projection of an

increasing elderly population, coupled with an associated fall in the numbers of

persons that are economically active will see an increased demand on fiscal,

housing and health provisions throughout the County during the coming years.

To facilitate good levels of economic activity within an area it essential that a high

percentage of the population are contributing to the local economy through

employment or by actively seeking work. To encourage and attract an economically

active population to reside in an area it is imperative for there to be a good supply of

local sustainable jobs, affordable housing and accessible services and facilities.

2008-based projections: various trends for the overall population

465000

470000

475000

480000

485000

490000

495000

500000

505000

510000

515000

520000

525000

530000

535000

540000

545000

550000

555000

1981

1983

1985

1987

1989

1991

1993

1995

1997

1999

2001

2003

2005

2007

2009

2011

2013

2015

2017

2019

2021

2023

2025

Nu

mb

er

anticipatedactual

DCC

Principal

DCC Lower

95%

DCC NC

ONS

Principal

An ageing population, and

fall in the number of persons

economically active by 2026

will place an increased

demand on fiscal, housing

and health provisions.

12

Figure 1.5: Age pyramid projections for Durham County Source: Durham County Council, Strategic Housing Market Assessment, 2010

Although Aycliffe New Town does not currently have an ageing population there is a

probability of this emerging over the next 20 to 30 years. 55.2% of residents are

aged between 25 to 64 years living in the community, many of whom by 20 to 30

years’ time will begin their transition into, or be in retirement.

If efforts are not made to continually encourage, maintain and attract younger

households to the community through the provision of affordable and accessible

housing and sustainable employment then it is likely that an ageing population will

become prominent. An ageing population can result in decreasing levels of

economic activity; this is turn can have a detrimental effect on sustainability and the

local economy.

DCC estimates indicate that in 2010 there were 206,281 households countywide.

This number is expected to increase by 24.9% to a total of 257,651 households by

2030 (Strategic Housing Market Assessment, DCC, 2010). By 2030 single person

households (including single pensioners) are expected to double (100.3%) to 56,564;

whereas two person households are only expected to increase by 18% to 14,087.

Larger households of three persons or more are expected to reduce by 26.9% to

19,281. This decrease in larger households, coupled with a significant increase in

the number of single person households, will have a major impact on the supply and

demand of housing throughout the County.

2008 based projections: the Age Pyramids for County Durham in 2008 and 2026 implied by

the DCC and ONS projections

40000 30000 20000 10000 0 10000 20000 30000 40000

0-4

5-9

10-14

15-19

20-24

25-29

30-34

35-39

40-44

45-49

50-54

55-59

60-64

65-69

70-74

75-79

80-84

85-90

90+

ag

e g

rou

ps

year 2008 year 2026

ONS 2026

ONS 2008

2026 DCC

2008 DCC

2 per. Mov. Avg.(2008 DCC)2 per. Mov. Avg.(ONS 2008)2 per. Mov. Avg.(2026 DCC)2 per. Mov. Avg.(ONS 2026)

13

1.1.2 Mosaic Community Profile

Utilisation of Mosaic Public Sector, provided by Experian, has enabled livin to

determine a community profile for Newton Aycliffe as a whole, and for livin tenants

within the New Town. This profile will help livin to understand the key characteristics

of the community, and livin’s tenants, with the aim of informing the efficient and

effective delivery of the identified actions contained within this Plan. The Mosaic

Public Sector profile data contained within this Plan relates to livin tenants only.

The Mosaic community profile for Newton Aycliffe highlights there to be a higher than

average percentage of livin households classified in the following profile groups

when compared to the rest of Durham County:

• Group O - Families in low-rise social housing with high levels of benefit need

• Group F – Couples with young children in comfortable modern housing

• Group D – Successful professionals living in suburban or semi-rural homes

Of the above profile types it is expected that 14% of residents are couples or families

with a comfortable level of income and good educational attainment. However in

‘Group O‘, (15.6%), it is expected that these residents suffer from poor health and

generally their income is low or benefit dependant.

It is expected that within Newton Aycliffe 40% households will consist of residents

with sufficient incomes in right to buy social housing and elderly people reliant on

state benefits. However this is comparable to the Durham County average.

There is lower than average percentage of households classified in the following

groups when compared to the rest of Durham County:

• Group I - Lower income workers in urban terraces in often diverse areas

• Group B – Residents of small and mid-sized towns with strong local roots

• Group C – Wealthy people living in the most sought after neighbourhoods

The above groups consist of only 8.6% of total households in Newton Aycliffe.

The Mosaic data for livin tenants within Aycliffe New Town highlights that over 70%

of households living within livin homes are expected to be families in low-rise social

housing with high levels of benefit need together with 17.79% of tenants being

residents with sufficient incomes in right to buy social housing. Within livin properties

there is also a mix of families and single persons that have below average income,

although these percentages are lower than the Durham County average.

14

1.1.3 Religion and Ethnicity

An understanding of the ethnic and religious structure of the local population enables

livin to ensure that its services are equally accessible, responsive and tailored to the

needs and requirements of all residents living within its local communities. It will also

help livin to ensure that any minority groups are consulted with during future

research and intelligence gathering, and allows for consideration of any specific

needs in relation to access for housing, health, and employability during the creation

of each community’s key priorities and Local Offers.

2001 Census data indicates that the main religion in Aycliffe New Town is

Christianity (79.5%). 0.2% stated their religion to be Muslim, together with 0.1%

stating their religion to be Buddhist, Hindu and Jewish. The remaining population

were 0.2% as other religions, 7.5% as religion not stated and a further 12.4% as

having no religion. (Census, 2001, LLSOA KS07, 009A, 009B, 009D, 009E, 009F,

010A, 010B, 010C, 010D).

Ethnicity within the community predominantly consists of White British (97.7%). The

remaining 1.1% of the population is from other ethnic backgrounds including; Irish,

Other White, Mixed White and Asian, Asian or Asian British Indian, Pakistani,

Bangladeshi and Chinese (Census, 2001, LLSOA KS06, 009A, 009B, 009D, 009E,

009F, 010A, 010B, 010C, 010D).

There is a recognition that in recent years there has been an increase in the Polish

community living and working within Newton Aycliffe. This may become more

apparent upon the release of the new Census data in 2013.

Recent research conducted by DCC and NHS Darlington estimated that between

0.43% to 0.57% of Durham County’s population consists of people from Gypsy,

Roma and Traveller Households (Renaissance Research, 2010). Further analysis of

these figures is currently not possible due to a lack of further data and intelligence.

DCC’s Gypsy, Roma and Traveller site at East Howle, near to Ferryhill, is the only

permanent residential site within livin’s area of operation.

15

What does this mean for livin? Demographics show a young family orientated community exists within Aycliffe New

Town. It is imperative that the available housing stock within the community is able to

meet the housing demands of the current and future population. Currently 63.72% of

households in Aycliffe New Town consist of families and couples, the majority of who

will have a housing need for larger sized quality homes with two bedrooms or more.

Over three quarters of livin’s current properties within the community are two to four

bedroom houses (78.70%), these can be utilised to meet some of the current

housing need for couples and families.

livin owns a total of 134 properties that are a mix of one and two bedroom bungalows. This represents 11.74% of livin’s housing stock within the community. The letting of bungalows is normally restricted to persons aged 60 or over or those with a medical need. Demand for one bedroom bungalows is typically low throughout all of livin’s

communities. Countywide there is currently a high demand for bungalows with two

bedrooms or more, and analysis of population trends and future population

projections expects this level of demand to continue for larger sized bungalows.

Key Demographic Characteristics:

66.2% of residents in the community are aged 16 to 64 years. This is higher than

the Durham County average of 64.3%.

9.2% of residents in the community are aged 65 years or more this being

substantially lower than the County average of 16.5%.

63.72% of households living in the community are couples, or families, this is

higher than the rest of Durham County.

22.34% of households consist of single persons. This is significantly lower than

the Durham County average. County Council projections indicate that the number

of single households will significantly increase over the coming years.

Trend-based projections indicate that the Countywide population will increase

to an estimated total of 501,625 in 2026 (DCC, 2010).

Currently the majority of the countywide population fall into the “economically

active” age group; however these residents will soon begin the transition in

retirement and will be the main driver of an ageing population.

97.77% of residents are White British. The prominent religion in the community

is Christianity (79.5%).

16

However, consideration must be given to the forthcoming Welfare Reform and its

potential for significantly increasing demand for smaller sized properties for persons

less than 61 years of age. To ensure the housing stock within the community is able

to meet current and future levels of demand it is necessary for livin to complete a

comprehensive review of the provision and suitability of its current housing stock.

This community has good levels of economic activity which is supported by a high

percentage of the population contributing to the local economy through employment

or actively seeking work. To maintain this activity it is important that efforts are made

to continually attract and encourage younger households to move into the

community through the provision of affordable and accessible housing and

sustainable employment. It is also necessary for there to be a range of accessible,

local services and support organisations that can provide family centred support to

these households and thus aid their involvement in the community.

An analysis and understanding of the Mosaic Public Sector profile for Aycliffe New

Town will enable livin to ensure that any specified actions within the Plan are tailored

to meet the needs and characteristics of the identified profile Groups living within the

community.

An understanding of the ethnic and religious structure of the local population will

enable livin to ensure that its services are equally accessible, responsive and

tailored to the needs and requirements of all residents living within the community

and throughout livin’s area of operation.

1.2 Housing

1.2.1 Housing Tenure

The community of Aycliffe New Town has a wide range of housing tenures. This is

very important as a diverse mix of different housing tenures will positively contribute

towards making the community more sustainable, by meeting the need of a cross

section of the population.

17

Figure 1.6: Housing Tenure in Aycliffe New Town

Source: Census, 2001, LLSOA KS18, 009A, 009B, 009D, 009E, 009F, 010A, 010B, 010C, 010D.

The majority of households living in Aycliffe New

Town own their properties (64.18%). 14.08% of

households own their property outright and

50.1% own their home through a mortgage or

loan scheme. The level of ownership is lower

than that of the County average, 66.65%. There

are 0.40% of properties owned through a shared ownership scheme within the

community which is illustrated in the chart above and is comparable with both

County (0.3%) and North East (0.4%) averages.

Social housing consists of domestic properties which are owned by Registered

Providers (RP’s), or the Local Authority. All social housing in Aycliffe New Town that

was previously owned by Sedgefield Borough Council (SBC) is now owned and

managed by livin.

28.42% of households in the community live in

homes provided by livin, and a further 2.71% of

households live in homes provided by other

RP’s. This higher percentage of social housing

can be attributed to the lower level of owner occupation.

There is a lower than average percentage (3.2%) of households in Aycliffe New

Town living in privately rented properties when compared to the rest of the County

(5.04%).

14.08

50.1 0.4

28.4

2.7

3.2

1.1 Owner Occupied: Owns outright

Owner Occupied: Owns with amortgage or loan

Owner occupied: Sharedownership

Rented from: Local Authority -including livin

Rented from: HousingAssociation / Registered SocialLandlordRented from: Private landlord orletting agency

Rented from: Other

31.1% of households in the

community live in social

housing. This is significantly

higher than the Durham

County average of 25.4%.

3.2% of households in

Aycliffe New Town live in

privately rented properties.

18

In the past the private rented sector has played an important role in the housing

market by offering accommodation for those households unable to access owner-

occupation or socially rented housing. Tighter controls and restrictions on

mortgages and financial lending are likely to place an even higher future demand on

the private rented housing market from low income households or first time buyers.

Those households unable to access social housing will be required to look to the

private rented sector to meet their housing need; placing an even higher demand on

this already limited sector.

There is a residential Gypsy, Roma and Traveller site located at East Howle near to

Spennymoor Town. The site is provided by DCC and has 25 permanent pitches. It

is the only permanent residential site within livin’s area of operation.

Generally, Aycliffe New Town exhibits a slightly unbalanced housing market with

good levels of owner occupation and social housing which are broadly comparable to

the Durham County and North East averages. To facilitate and maintain

sustainability within a community it is important for there to be varied range of

housing options available to meet the demands and needs of local residents.

1.2.2 Average House Prices

Land Registry data for January to March 2010

indicates that the average house price in DL5 4,

DL5 5, DL5 6, DL5 7 (Aycliffe New Town) was

£131,715. This price is £34,159 higher than the

Durham County average of £97,556 for the same

period (Land Registry, 2011).

The price of a terraced house within DL5 4, DL5 5, DL5 6, and DL5 7 for this period

was on average £89,908. The average price of a terraced property in Durham

County for this period was £60,742 thus costing on average £29,166 less than a

similar property within Aycliffe New Town.

Countywide, detached properties cost an average of £8,097 less. During this three

month period there were no sales of flats/maisonettes and therefore no comparison

can be made.

It is recognised that the differing socio-economic groups, desirability and location of

properties within the areas included in the postcodes DL5 4, DL5 5, DL5 6, and DL5

7 will have a bearing on the local house prices for each individual community.

Information obtained from the Zoopla website for the last year, indicates that current

property prices within Aycliffe New Town generally range from £43,500 to £90,000

for a terraced property and £125,000 to £295,000 for a four bedroom detached

property.

During January to March

2010 the average cost of

buying a home in Aycliffe

New Town was £34,159

higher when compared to

the Durham County average.

19

Figure 1.7: Average House Prices in Aycliffe New Town, (January to March 2010) Source: Land Registry, 2011

The County Durham Strategic Housing Market Assessment (DCC, 2010) assessed

affordability between lower quartile house prices and lower quartile earnings.

Based on these figures buyers would need to borrow 4.6 times their income (based

on lower quartile earnings) to purchase a property (based on lower quartile house

prices) in the area of the former Sedgefield Borough. Access to lending on homes is

calculated using a multiplier of 3.5 for single households and 2.9 for households with

two or more incomes.

For Aycliffe New Town, buyers will need to

borrow 5.9 times their own income to purchase a

property within the area. This has resulted in a

community ranking of SILVER. The Land

Registry house data used to obtain this ranking

is comparable with the sold house prices

obtained from Zoopla. Full details of the

methodology for this ranking can be found in

Appendix 2.

During livin’s consultation there were concerns

from residents about the affordability of

properties within the community. Generally the

residents believe to get on to the property ladder is very difficult due to cost of homes

thus identifying a need to provide more affordable housing to help those within the

community obtain their first home.

£0

£89,908

£118,371

£186,868

£131,715

£73,445 £60,742

£94,403

£178,771

£97,556

£0

£20,000

£40,000

£60,000

£80,000

£100,000

£120,000

£140,000

£160,000

£180,000

£200,000

Aycliffe New Town

Durham County

“I have no chance of buying

my own home, it’s just too

expensive, there is definitely

a need for more affordable

housing”

Resident from Newton

Aycliffe

20

The cost of buying a home within the community is more affordable when compared

to the County multiplier of 5.2 (Strategic Housing Market Assessment, DCC, 2010)

and substantially more affordable when compared nationally (6.28). Residents did

raise concerns that there is not enough housing within the community which will lead

to the question of affordability so it is important that livin are aware of the market

costs of home ownership as developments are commenced within the village.

Although there are a number of current Government incentives available nationwide

to help first time property buyers these are only available on new build properties. A

new scheme called First Buy has been introduced from September 2011. This

scheme will be jointly funded by the Government and house builders and will provide

a 20% loan to top up the first time buyer’s own deposit of 5%. This will allow them to

take out a mortgage for 75% of the property’s value. The loans will be free of charge

for the first five years and must be repaid when the property is resold. The funds will

then be recycled to fund more homes in the scheme. There are currently no

HomeBuy and First Buy schemes in Aycliffe New Town. The nearest schemes can

be located in Peterlee, Murton, Shotton Colliery and Spennymoor Town.

What does this mean for livin?

Given that a nearly a third of residents reside in social housing within Aycliffe New

Town, livin and other RP’s have a significant stake in the housing market within this

community.

Key Housing Market Characteristics:

The community has a wide range of Housing Tenures and exhibits a slightly

unbalanced housing market; this is important as a diverse mix of tenures will

contribute towards making an area more sustainable by meeting the need of a

cross section of the population.

64.18% of households own their property outright, or through a mortgage or loan

scheme. There is 0.40% of properties owned through shared ownership.

The community has a substantially higher percentage of Social Housing

(31.1%) when compared to the rest of Durham County.

3.2% of properties in the community are privately rented properties. The private

rented sector plays an important part in any local housing market as it is able to

offer accommodation for those unable to access owner occupation or social

housing.

Land Registry data indicates that during January to March 2010 the average cost

of buying a property in the community was approximately £34,159 more when

compared to the Durham County average.

21

It is important that as a major housing provider within the community and a key

player in the housing market livin understand their role in helping to balance the local

housing market whilst also making efforts to help meet housing need, as identified in

DCC’s Housing Strategies. This may be through the ongoing development or the

acquisition of housing stock, redevelopment of low demand housing stock or the

potential of bringing non livin properties that are currently empty back into use.

livin needs to consider the health of the local housing market and the ability of

households to meet their own housing need. Lack of access to the owner occupier

and the private rented sectors can increase pressure on livin’s housing stock,

particularly for single households, young couples and families.

1.2.3 Current Supply and Demand for Housing

livin Housing Stock

livin currently owns and manages a total of 1141

properties in Aycliffe New Town (livin, 2011).

Ownership of these properties transferred to livin

in March 2009 as part of a stock transfer from

the now disbanded Sedgefield Borough Council.

Since March 2009, there have been six properties within Newton Aycliffe purchased

from livin through the “Right to Buy” scheme.

livin’s properties within this community include one, two and three bedroom

bungalows, two to five bedroomed houses and maisonettes. A breakdown of livin’s

stock in Aycliffe New Town and the age profile of lead tenants can be seen in the

following tables:

Property Types

1 Bedroom Bungalow 92

2 Bed Ground Floor Maisonette 55

2 Bed Upper Floor Maisonette 52

2 Bedroom Bungalow 42

2 Bedroom House 273

3 Bedroom House 604

3 Bedroom Bungalow 1

4 Bedroom House 21

5 Bedroom House 1

Total

1141

Figure 1.8: livin stock in Aycliffe New Town (as at 21 October 2011) Source: livin, 2011

livin own 1141 properties in

the community; 11.83% of

these are bungalows and

78.80% are houses.

22

Age Range (based on age of lead tenant)

16-19 15

20-29 183

30-39 205

40-49 245

50-59 194

60-69 154

70 & Over 135

Unknown (Void, non livin managed) 10

Total 1141

Figure 1.9: Age profile of livin lead tenants in Aycliffe New Town (as at 11 July 2011) Source: livin, 2011

It is important that stock levels within a community are able to meet current and

future demands for housing. A good range of housing stock located within a

community will help provide a greater level of choice for housing applicants,

including single persons, couples, families and older persons.

Currently 11.83% of livin’s housing stock in Aycliffe New Town consists of one, two

and three bedroom bungalows. Of this total number of bungalows 31.85% have two

bedrooms or more. 78.80% of the housing stock consists of two, three, four and five

bedroom houses.

The provision of bungalows within a community would normally be expected to help

meet the demands of an ageing population, or those wishing to remain in

mainstream housing through their later years. As demand throughout livin’s

communities for one bedroom bungalows is typically low, there is the potential for

these property types not to meet future demand for housing within the area.

However there will be a need for livin to consider the forthcoming Welfare Reform

and its potential for again increasing demand for smaller sized properties for persons

less than 61 years of age.

The very low number of lead tenants within the 16 to 19 age range may be the result

of younger persons being unable to take their first steps into renting a property of

their own. This may be due to financial restrictions, difficulties posed by the current

economic climate, or their eligibility for social housing.

livin Housing Demand, Need and Turnover

Since 1 October 2009 livin has allocated properties

through a Choice Based Lettings (CBL) scheme,

known as Durham Key Options (DKO). DKO is a

partnership of local housing providers across County

Durham. CBL allows applicants to place an interest,

or “bid”, for the type of property they require based on

their circumstances.

There are currently 302

households from Newton

Aycliffe registered with

Durham Key Options that

are in statutory housing

need.

23

Analysis of livin’s housing register in February 2011 found there to be 859 active

applications for housing received from residents already living in the whole of

Newton Aycliffe. 302 of these applicants were banded by DKO as Bands A to C+

due to them having a statutory housing need. This percentage of households in

housing need may be linked to the inability to obtain a mortgage or loan due to

current lending restrictions, or restricted access to the private rented and social

housing sectors as a result of the current underlying economic climate, limited stock

levels or unsuitable property types. Only 47 applicants are aged less than 25 years,

with a further 166 aged 50 years or more.

During the period 1 October 2009 to 30 September 2010, there were 133 livin

properties available for let in Aycliffe New Town making livin’s stock turnover within

the community 11.65%. This is a high level of turnover when compared to the total

turnover of all livin housing stock (9%) for the same period.

Number of properties

Number of bids

Average number of

bids per property

1 Bed Bungalow 16 258 16

2 Bed Bungalow 5 94 19

2 Bed Maisonette 24 574 24

2 Bed House 36 1673 46

3 Bed House 50 801 16

4 Bed House 2 32 16 Figure 1.10: livin properties available for let during the period 1 October 2009 to 30 September 2010 in Aycliffe New Town Source: livin, 2011

Based on national benchmarking figures provided by HouseMark this high level of

stock turnover has resulted in the community being ranked as Bronze for Tenancy

Turnover. Full details of the methodology used for this ranking can be found in

Appendix 2.

To maintain sustainability within a community there will always be a need for some

level of tenancy turnover. However, it is important that turnover does not reach a

level where it becomes detrimental to housing demand, the community’s reputation

or the local economy. Likewise, levels of turnover must not be as low as to restrict

access to social housing for those households with housing need.

The types of properties available for let within the community during the period 1

October 2009 to 30 September 2010 were a mixture of one and two bedroom

bungalows and two, three and four bedroom houses together with two bedroomed

maisonettes.

24

There was no turnover of a three bedroom bungalow and a five bedroom house

although it is important to note that livin only own one of each of these property types

within this community.

A limited turnover of livin’s properties and different property types will see a number

of households being required to consider other housing options to meet their housing

need.

Again for many households, including first time buyers or those on a low income,

buying their own home is not a viable option leading to an increased demand on the

private rented sector. High market rents or a lack of availability of larger properties

within this housing sector may ultimately force some households to move out of the

local area in search of suitable accommodation.

There were a total of 3432 bids received for 133 properties. As only six property

types became available for let within this period it is not possible to fully determine

the levels of demand for all property types within Aycliffe New Town. Based on the

total number of bids received per property the highest demand was for two bedroom

houses; receiving on average 46 bids per property.

It is however important to remember that policy decisions and legislation will affect

the levels of demand for particular house types. A high level of demand for two

bedroom houses could be due to need and eligibility from several household groups

including families, couples, and single persons whereas three and four bedroom

properties will only be eligible for larger families and bungalows for older persons or

those with a medical need.

It is important that lettings policies are regularly reassessed to reflect the supply of

housing and demand with the aim of promoting sustainability within an area.

Demand for smaller properties, particularly one bedroom bungalows, is typically low

throughout all of livin’s communities. Although the number of bids received for one

bedroom bungalows within Aycliffe New Town may be seen as high this is due to a

number of these properties being advertised for let on more than one bidding cycle

with CBL. If after one advertising cycle with DKO, a bungalow is unable to be let,

livin may consider lowering the age restriction to increase eligibility for more

applicants which often increases the number of bids received. As demand for this

property type is typically low throughout all of livin’s communities there is potential for

these properties to not meet future housing demand. This will require livin to

conduct a stock options appraisal and review of its housing stock for older persons.

During the period 1 October 2009 to 30 September 2010 the highest demand

was for two bedroom houses.

25

However, any such appraisal will must consider the forthcoming Welfare Reform and

its potential for again increasing demand for smaller sized properties for persons less

than 61 years of age.

Countywide there is currently an increased demand for bungalows with two

bedrooms or more (County Durham Strategic Housing Market Assessment, DCC,

2010). Demand for two bedroom bungalows within the community is good with a

total of 94 bids being received for a total of 5 properties, this good level of demand is

typical for these properties throughout all of livin’s communities.

Of the 133 properties available to let in Aycliffe New Town during the period 1

October 2009 to 30 September 2010, 9 were required to be advertised with CBL on

three or more consecutive bidding cycles before being let. Although a number of

bids may have been received for a property within each individual bidding cycle the

property was not allocated for let due to the applicant withdrawing their bid upon

offer. A total of 8 of these properties were one bedroomed bungalows indicating that

this property type is either unpopular, and/or has an unpopular location within the

area.

Data from DKO’s database indicates a good level of overall demand from applicants

for livin housing within the community. Due to the high number of bids received per

property advertised, low numbers of hard to let properties in the community and a

high amount of applicants indicating Aycliffe New Town to be an area of preference;

the community has been ranked as Gold. Full details of the methodology used for

this ranking can be found in Appendix 2.

During consultation residents expressed concerns about the need for larger

bungalows within the community to meet need and demand although bids for two

bedroomed bungalows were good as illustrated in table above there are higher

demand for maisonettes and houses.

1.2.4 livin Tenancy Sustainment

There is a good percentage of long term tenancy

sustainment within the 1141 properties owned by livin

in Aycliffe New Town.

As at 27 October 2011, 35.90% of livin tenants have

sustained their current tenancy for a period of 0 to 4

years. A further 22.55% of tenants have sustained

their tenancy for a period of 5 to 9 years and 41.55% of tenants who have a tenancy

in this community have lived in their current home for 10 years or more.

41.55% of tenants who

have a livin tenancy in this

community have lived in

their current home for 10

years or more.

26

Community sustainability requires an appropriate level of tenancy turnover. High

levels of tenancy sustainment within social housing can be for a multitude of

reasons. Although some may be favourable it is important to ensure that tenants are

not remaining in their current home due to restrictions in their housing options (i.e.

ability to purchase own property) or financial restrictions around the cost of

relocating.

Figure 1.11: livin tenancy sustainment in Aycliffe New Town

Source: livin, 2011 (not including void properties or non livin managed properties)

High tenancy sustainment may result in housing stock being under occupied. Larger

households may over time reduce in size due to children growing up and leaving

home, relationships breakdowns, or bereavement. In additional to a detrimental

effect on the level of housing demand within a community there may be financial

implications to the tenant as a result of the forthcoming Welfare Reform which aims

to reduce benefit payments for tenants that under occupier their homes (excluding

persons aged 61 and over).

1.2.5 Vacant / Abandoned Properties

High levels of void or empty properties can be a

strong indicator of low demand for housing within

an area. The community of Aycliffe New Town

has a low percentage of housing that consists of

empty and/or abandoned properties; indicating a

good level of demand for housing within this

community.

Data obtained from DCC’s Council Tax database

in January 2012 indicates there to be an overall

total of 99 possible properties that have been

empty and/or abandoned (this figure may include properties that are currently for

sale) for a period of six months or more within Newton Aycliffe as a whole.

406

255

470

0

50

100

150

200

250

300

350

400

450

500

0-4 Years 5-9 Years 10 Years +

Nu

mb

er

of

ten

anci

es

livin Tenancy Sustainment

“livin could help people

onto the housing market

by regenerating old

houses, and empty

properties for rent or sale”

Resident from Newton

Aycliffe

27

Based on a total of 5,148 domestic dwellings (Census, 2001, LLSOA, KS16, 009A,

009B, 009D, 009E, 009F, 010A, 010B, 010C, 010D) this is only 1.92% of the total number of

dwellings in the community. Data collection limitations have restricted further

detailed analysis of this information.

What does this mean for livin?

Demand for livin housing in this community has been ranked as GOLD. It is essential

that this ranking is maintained and over the coming years. Although this ranking for

demand reflects a high housing need, livin need to consider why the community has

a high tenancy turnover. This will involve consideration of any trends in short term

tenancy sustainment.

Key Supply and Demand Characteristics:

livin currently own 1141 properties within the community; 78.8% are two to five

bedroom houses and 11.83% are bungalows.

31.85% of these bungalows have two bedrooms or more. There is one three

bedroom bungalow and no four bedroom bungalows owned by livin in the

community.

302 of applicants on the housing register with Durham Key Options that currently

live in Newton Aycliffe were classed as having a statutory Housing Need (Bands

A to C+).

During 1 October 2009 to 30 September 2010, 133 properties became available

for let; making tenancy turnover within the community 11.65%.

During 1 October 2009 to 30 September 2010 there was no turnover of a three

bedroom bungalow and a five bedroomed house, however stock of this type is

small. Households requiring these property types may be forced to access the

private rented sector or move out of the community to meet their housing need.

Demand for properties with two or more bedrooms is good. There is a high

demand Countywide for these property types. Demand is low for one bedroom

bungalows in the community. This is typical in all of livin’s communities.

There were 9 properties that were hard to let during the period 1 October 2009

to 30 September 2010. 8 of these properties were one bedroom bungalows.

41.55% of livin tenants living within the community have sustained their tenancy

for a period of 10 years or more.

28

The projection of an ageing population throughout the County over the coming years,

in conjunction with high levels of demand for properties with two bedrooms or more,

highlights a clear need for livin to review its provision of current housing stock to

meet the current and future housing needs of the local population. It is important

that to maintain sustainability within the community there is a good supply of

accessible family homes.

Currently the housing stock within the community highlights only 11.83 % are

bungalows and of this just over 31.85% are two bedrooms or more; therefore

consideration of the communities current population and the 2028 forecasted

population projection by DCC indicates that this demand for those larger sized

bungalows will continue to increase over the next 10 years and place a greater need

on this property type.

livin must consider not only the need for bungalows, as identified through DCC but

the communities need to have affordable homes within the community that allow first

time buyers or those seeking their first home to gain access to the property ladder.

This may be achievable through a mixture tenure development taking into

consideration current market forces and economic climate with regard to mortgage

and lending restrictions.

1.2.6 Future Demand for Housing

Population and household projections for a community can be utilised by a number

of different service providers to predict the future level of demand on their services.

In conjunction with other social, economic, and environmental indicators these

projections may be used to forecast the demand and need for housing in a

community.

DCC have conducted a Strategic Housing Market Assessment (DCC, 2010) which

can be utilised by RP’s to help determine the expected level of demand for housing

over the coming years and assist them in developing future housing strategies.

Population and household projections within this Community Plan are based on this

assessment.

It is expected that the vast majority of older persons will decide to remain in their own

homes with mainstream housing providing the primary means of meeting this

demand. Local RP’s will be required to support this by providing extra support

services and help for people to adapt their homes to meet their changing needs.

Some vulnerable groups will require support or bespoke housing solutions and it is

expected that there will be a sharp growth in demand for specialist housing projects

for persons aged 75 years or older during the coming years. The decisions of older

households to remain in their homes will influence the supply of housing available for

other household groups. As a result it is important that local RP’s recognise the

29

potential opportunities for supporting older households to downsize, thus releasing a

supply of larger family homes for other household groups.

In recognition of this increased demand on mainstream housing the Northern

Housing Consortium (NHC) published a guide to Age Friendly Communities in the

North: People and Places 2020.

This publication is the result of a two year project involving consultation with local

communities and key Consortium members, and focuses on building an evidence

base to demonstrate the significant impact housing can have on the physical and

mental health and wellbeing of older people.

During livin’s consultation local residents did not provide any comments relating to

energy saving measures or increasing energy efficiency within their homes and their

potential to affect future demand.

Key Future Demand Characteristics:

An ageing population, and fall in the number of persons economically active by

2026 will place an increased demand on fiscal, housing and health

provisions.

By 2030 the County is expected to see:

single person households increase by 100.3%

two person households increase by only 18%

three person households or more decrease by 26.9%

The majority of older persons will want to remain in their own homes through their senior years. This will place an increased demand on mainstream and social housing.

Increased future demand is expected for support services for vulnerable groups, and a need for bespoke housing solutions or specialist housing projects for persons aged 75 years or more. It is important that livin’s housing stock is able to meet the future demands of an ageing population.

30

During 2009/2010, livin’s average repair cost per property in Aycliffe New Town

was £661.21, during 2010/2011 this increased to £703.31 per property.

What does this mean for livin? livin’s Development and Asset Management strategies must take into account future

population projections and consider the expected demand for social housing within

the community to ensure housing stock meets the future needs and demands of

local residents.

livin will also have to consider its current housing provision and how it will meet the

needs of an increasing elderly population whilst also finding bespoke solutions to

meet the individual needs of vulnerable groups.

Anticipation of an ageing population and low demand for livin’s one bedroom

bungalows and sheltered housing schemes throughout its areas of operation

highlights the requirement for livin to review its current provision of housing stock for

older persons.

There may also be potential opportunities for housing providers to support older

households to downsize thus releasing a supply of larger family homes for other

household groups.

The current economic climate and an increasing awareness surrounding the benefits

of installing energy efficient measures within homes may over the coming years

begin to influence the levels of demand for livin’s properties. This will require livin to

investigate the potential benefits of installing a range of energy efficiency measures

within its current properties and future developments. In addition to helping reduce

the consumption of energy in livin homes these measures may also see cost saving

benefits for tenants through reduced energy bills.

1.2.7 Average cost of Repairs to livin properties

The repair and maintenance of livin’s properties is essential to ensure that they

remain in excellent condition and to the high standards expected by tenants. Aycliffe

New Town has been awarded a ranking of BRONZE for average repair costs per

property when compared to other livin communities. Full details of the methodology

used for this ranking can be found in Appendix 2.

During the period 1 April 2009 to 31 March 2010 livin, together with its repairs and

maintenance partner Mears, completed 4,269 repairs (including gas safety) to

properties in Aycliffe New Town. On average 34% of these repairs were emergency

repairs which required immediate attention.

The average repair cost (including gas safety) per property across all of livin’s 19

communities for the period 1 April 2009 to 31 March 2010 was £604.89.

31

During 2010/2011, livin improved 922 of its properties in Aycliffe New Town at an

average cost of £6,664.09 per property.

During 1 April 2010 to 31 March 2011, the number of completed repairs (including

gas safety) to livin properties in Aycliffe New Town reduced to 3730. On average

35% of these repairs were emergency repairs which required immediate attention.

1.2.8 Average cost of Improvement Programmes for livin properties

Over the next few years, and as part of promises to tenants, livin is investing over

£100 million in a rolling programme of modernisation and improvements to the

properties that it owns.

The modernisation and improvement programme that livin is carrying out on its

properties is to a much higher standard of works than that of the Government's

Decent Homes Standard.

The improvements that livin are completing include:

New Kitchens

New Bathrooms

Central Heating Replacement

Electrical Works

Internal and External Door Replacement

Roofing works

During a programme of works not all of livin’s properties will receive all of the above

improvements at the same time. There are a number of factors that determine which

improvement works are completed at the property during forthcoming programmes in

each community. For example some properties may only receive new internal and

external doors, whereas other may be due new internal and external doors plus a

replacement of the kitchen and bathroom.

A number of improvement programmes have already been completed in Aycliffe

New Town. During the period 1 April 2009 to 31 March 2010, livin and its partners

completed internal modernisations and improvements to 435 properties at an

average cost of £5,008.75 per property.

During 2010/2011 internal modernisations and improvements were made to 922

properties at an average cost of £6,664.09 per property. These properties received

a number of improvements including new kitchens and bathrooms, internal and

external doors, a full electrical rewire and new heating system.

During 2011/2012 livin carried out a full range of improvements to a further 128 of its

properties in Aycliffe New Town at an expected average cost of £5,924.08 per

property.

32

What does this mean for livin?

The community has a reasonable repair cost per property resulting in a ranking of

BRONZE. However approximately one third of the repairs required to livin properties

in the community during 2009/2010 and 2010/11 were emergencies. Investigation

into the causes of these repairs may be considered in an attempt to minimise the

amount of emergency repairs required within our properties.

The average cost of repair to livin’s properties in Aycliffe New Town has increased in

successive years from 2009/2010 to 2010/2011 even though the number of repairs

has decreased.

Since 2009, livin has conducted a number of improvement and modernisation

programmes to its properties within Aycliffe New Town.

It is expected that as a result of these improvement programmes, together with the

future programmes scheduled for completion during 2012/2013 there will be a

reduction in the repair costs for these properties during the coming years.

33

During December 2010 to December 2011 the police received 1606 reported

incidents of crime and antisocial behaviour within the neighbourhood of Aycliffe

New Town.

(Police.uk, 2011)

1.3 Crime and Antisocial Behaviour

The community of Aycliffe New Town is located in the Police Beat areas of the West,

Greenfield & Middridge and Woodham Wards. There is a local Police Office located

on Welbury Way within Newton Aycliffe. This facility is the location of the

Neighbourhood Beat Team. Police stations closest to this office are located in the

neighbouring towns of Spennymoor and Bishop Auckland.

Figure 1.12: Reported Police incidents of crime and antisocial behaviour in the areas of Aycliffe New Town during December 2010 to December 2011 Source: Police.uk, 2011

From the 1 December 2010 to December 2011 Durham Constabulary reported the

level of crime and disorder within the area covered by Aycliffe New Town to be

“Average” when compared to the rest of the Police Beat Wards within England and

Wales.

0

84

79

78

121

76

89

148

92

103

88

74

69

0 50 100 150 200

Dec-10

Jan-11

Feb-11

Mar-11

Apr-11

May-11

Jun-11

Jul-11

Aug-11

Sep-11

Oct-11

Nov-11

Dec-11

Other Crime

Drugs

Other Theft

Criminal Damage &ArsonShoplifting

Public Disorder &WeponsViolent Crime

Vehicle Crime

Robbery

Anti-Social Behaviour

Burglary

34

During this period there were a total of 1606 reported incidents of crime and

antisocial behaviour in the community of Aycliffe New Town (Police.uk, 2011). Of

this total 68.55% were in relation to antisocial behaviour, 17.06% were in relation to

“other” crimes (including fraud, forgery and miscellaneous crime), 5.98% were in

relation to violent crime, 2.12% were in relation to vehicle crime and 2.5% in relation

to criminal damage and arson.

Figure 1.13: Aycliffe New Town. livin asb complaints Source: Support and Intervention Team

livin’s Support and Intervention Team received 92

complaints occurring within Aycliffe New Town

during the period 1 April 2010 to 31 March 2011.

These complaints, received by livin, related to a

number of issues, including, offensive behaviour,

loud music, domestic noise, nuisance and garden

nuisance together with arguing/shouting.

0 2 4 6 8 10

Apr-10

May-10

Jun-10

Jul-10

Aug-10

Sep-10

Oct-10

Nov-10

Dec-10

Jan-11

Feb-11

Mar-11

Criminal behaviour / crime other thanabove

Prostitution / sexual acts / kerbcrawling

Misuse of communal areas / publicspaces

Garden nuisance

Condition of property

Physical violence (other than above)

Domestic abuse

Alcohol related

Drugs / substance misuse, drug dealing

Nuisance from vehicles

Pets & animal nuisance

Vandalism & damage to property

Arguing, shouting and/or screaming

Offensive behaviour

Loud music

Domestic noise

“Problems with youths

drinking”

Resident from Newton

Aycliffe

35

The views of both local residents and the community’s Police Beat Teams

highlighted a number of issues relating to antisocial

behaviour, violent crime, criminal damage,

shoplifting, drugs and the drinking of alcohol in public

places. These views are reflected in Durham

Constabulary’s reported crime data which indicates

that antisocial behaviour equates to 68.55% of

reported incidents during the period of December

2010 to December 2011.

Recent consultation completed by DCC (Residents Survey, 2010) highlighted that

within the Great Aycliffe and Middridge AAP area, less than 1% of residents feel

unsafe in their local communities during the day.

The AAP’s with the highest fear of safety during the daytime were Bishop Auckland

and Shildon, and 4Together, both with a percentage of 3%. 9% of Great Aycliffe and

Middridge AAP residents stated they felt unsafe in their local area during the

evening, this being the 6th lowest out of all of the County’s 14 AAP’s. The AAP with

the highest fear of safety during the evening was Bishop Auckland and Shildon with

15%. Countywide, 42% of residents completing the survey indicated the main

reason for feeling unsafe in their local community is due to youths congregating on

the streets.

Mosaic profile data highlights that for livin tenant’s the majority of households in

Aycliffe New Town will have a “very high” fear of becoming a victim of crime in their

community. Households in Groups K, 17.79%, (Residents with sufficient incomes in

right to buy social housing) are expected to have a ‘high’ fear of becoming a victim of

crime.

“Lack of respect”

Resident from Newton

Aycliffe

36

What does this mean for livin?

It is important that livin maintains its commitment to providing a robust and

responsive service for dealing with incidents of nuisance and antisocial behaviour in

local communities. livin is aware that partnership working is essential when

addressing and dealing with crime and antisocial behaviour in its communities.

As such livin will continue to actively work with local residents and community

groups, the Police, DCC and other agencies through the attendance of staff

members at PACT meetings, residents meetings and other local events to promote it

services and offer help and support to victims of nuisance or antisocial behaviour.

livin must utilise a wide range of tools and powers to tackle incidents of nuisance and

antisocial behaviour within its communities. These can range from the effective use

of mediation to resolve low level community disputes, through to the use of legal

injunctions or possession orders for more serious cases of antisocial behaviour.

Consideration is also currently being given to the potential use of restorative justice

practices as a further tool to help livin tackle incidents of nuisance and antisocial

behaviour within its communities.

Key Crime and Antisocial Behaviour Characteristics:

For the period December 2010 to December 2011 the level of crime and disorder

within Aycliffe New Town was considered by the Police to be “Average” when

compared to the rest of the Police Beat Teams in England and Wales.

During the same period there were 1606 reported Police incidents of crime and

antisocial behaviour in Aycliffe New Town:

68.55% of reported incidents were in respect of antisocial behaviour

17.06% of incidents related to other crimes, such as fraud, forgery and

miscellaneous crime

5.98% of incidents related to violent crime

2.50% of incidents related to criminal damage and arson

2.12% of incidents related to vehicle crime

During the period 1 April 2010 and 31 March 2011, livin’s Support and

Intervention Team received 92 complaints.

Consultation found local residents are concerned about antisocial behaviour

caused by local youths, drinking of alcohol, drug use, litter, dog fouling and

the drinking of alcohol in public places.

9% of Great Aycliffe and Middridge AAP residents stated they felt unsafe in their

local area during the evening, this being the 6th lowest out of all of the County’s 14

AAP’s.

37

livin is already a contributing partner to the Safe Durham Partnership and plays an

important role in supporting the partnership to help people feel safer within their local

communities.

There are concerns from residents regarding a number of issues surrounding crime

and antisocial behaviour these issues are regarding drug taking, graffiti, ‘yob’ culture,

dog fouling, litter and the drinking of alcohol in open areas. This highlights

opportunities for livin to work closely with DCC, Great Aycliffe Town Council, Durham

Constabulary and particularly Newton Aycliffe Beat Teams, GAMP AAP, and other

community organisations to help develop and support diversionary activities for

children and young persons within the community. These actions and partnership

working cannot be made in respect of Aycliffe New Town but as an action for the

whole of Newton Aycliffe. To encourage good levels of participation it is important

that any proposed activities are developed in conjunction with the local youths to

ensure good levels of participation and actions are targeted.

38

During 2001 economic activity within Aycliffe New Town was 66.9%; this was

higher than the County average of 60.2%.

(Source: Census 2001)

1.4 Economy and Employment

1.4.1 Economic Activity

“Economic activity relates to persons aged 16 to 74 years who are in employment, or

actively seeking employment and are available to start work within 2 weeks.”

(Source: Census, 2001)

Of this total economic activity 44.7% were in full time employment, this being higher

than the Durham County average of 38.5%. 10.6% in part time employment, this

being marginally lower than the County average of 10.7%. 4.8% of residents were

self-employed; this being less than the Durham County average of 5.4%. It is

acknowledged that as a result of the current economic climate the level of economic

activity within the community may have changed since this data was collated in

2001.

Figure 1.14: Economic Activity in Aycliffe New Town Source: Census 2001, LLSOA, KS02, 009A, 009B, 009D, 009E, 009F, 010A, 010B, 010C, 010D.

The 2010 Indices of Deprivation indicates that in relation to employment, 26.0% of

residents living in the Great Aycliffe and Middridge AAP area are deemed to be in

the top 10% nationally deprived and 77.1% in the top 30% nationally deprived

(Communities and Local Government (CLG), 2010). The percentage of residents in

44.7

10.6

4.8 5.0 1.8

38.5

10.7

5.4 3.7

1.8

0.0

5.0

10.0

15.0

20.0

25.0

30.0

35.0

40.0

45.0

50.0

EmployeesFull-time

EmployeesPart-time

Self Employed Unemployed Full timeStudent

Aycliffe New Town

Durham County

39

the top 10% deprived is notably lower than the Durham County average of 30.8%.

There has been a small decrease in the levels of employment related deprivation

since 2007, when 26.3% of residents were deemed to be in the top 10% most

deprived.

Nearly three quarters of businesses in the Great Aycliffe and Middridge AAP area

are classed as small with 10 or less employees (DCC, 2011). During the period

2006 to 2008, the Great Aycliffe and Middridge AAP area was home to 5.8% of the

total number of businesses that were operating within Durham County. 73.7% of

these businesses employed 10 employees or less, whilst 26.3% employed 11 or

more employees (Annual Business Inquiry, 2008).

Newton Aycliffe is home to the second largest industrial estate in the area. There

are also a number of smaller industrial estates located at Shildon. All are home to a

number of local, national and international businesses. Large industrial estates are

also located at Peterlee, Sedgefield and Wynyard. NETPark in Sedgefield is seen to

be one of the fastest growing science, engineering and technological business parks

in the Country with good access to the major roads of the A1 and A19. Wynyard

Park, located at nearby Wynyard, is home to a number of local, national, and

international businesses. There are smaller estates located within the surrounding

area at Bowburn, Fishburn, Meadowfield, Willington, Chilton and Spennymoor.

Development is also currently under way on DurhamGate in Spennymoor, a large

mixed-use regeneration scheme which will incorporate business, living and leisure.

The proposed retail and commercial developments at the DurhamGate site in

Spennymoor and the Hitachi factory in Newton Aycliffe will hopefully help to boost

economic activity and employment opportunities for local residents and those in

surrounding areas

livin own a retail unit in Parsons Centre, Sid Chaplin Drive together with two

community buildings within Silverdale Place. The community buildings and the retail

unit are currently occupied.

The availability of local employment was a key issue highlighted by residents during

livin’s consultation. Residents reported a number of concerns about the lack of local

jobs, the need to travel outside of the area to seek employment and the lack of

apprenticeships. This necessity to travel is currently being hampered by rising fuel

costs and the affordability of car ownership and taxi hire. The reliance on a bus

service to travel to and from Newton Aycliffe was not a specific concern for residents

and some view the service offered as good and given the reduction of bus services

Countywide this is a surprising comment.

The importance of sustainable employment and enhanced job prospects within the

local area has been acknowledged during Forum Events conducted by Great Aycliffe

and Middridge AAP. During 2011/2012, “employment, job prospects and enterprise”

was a key priority for the AAP to tackle. At the AAP’s Forum Event in November

40

The neighbourhood has a high percentage of persons employed in process;

plant and machine operatives, as associate professional and technical roles and

Managers and senior officials when compared to the rest of the County.

(Source: Census, 2001)

2011, the issue of “employment, enterprise, education and training” was voted by

Forum members as the second highest issue within the AAP area. As a result this

will continue as one of Great Aycliffe and Middridge AAP’s key priorities for

2012/2013.

Census data indicates that residents within Aycliffe New Town are employed in a

wide range of different occupations (Census 2001, LLSOA, KS02, 009A, 009B,

009D, 009E, 009F, 010A, 010B, 010C, 010D).

There is a higher percentage (16%) of process; plant and machine operatives living

in the community when compared to the Durham County average (13%).Using this

data the Community also exhibits a higher percentage of residents employed within

associated professional and technical roles (13%) and Managers and senior officials

of 13% when compared to the rest of the County.

There are a low percentage of residents in the community employed as

professionals, such as Doctors and Dentists (8%), or in administrative and

secretarial roles and elementary occupations; such as labourers, kitchen assistants,

and bar staff when compared to the rest of the County.

High levels of employment within professional or management/senior roles reflect

the high percentage of residents in Aycliffe New Town who hold an educational

qualification at levels 3 to 5 (section 1.7) and are comparable with the Durham

County average. Level 3 qualifications are necessary for progression to higher

education or University. Qualifications at levels 4 to 5 are equivalent to degree or

professional level.

2001 census data highlighted that a high percentage of residents within this

neighbourhood were employed within the process, plant and machine processing

industry. Over the past ten years this industry has been one of the hardest hit

resulting in many large scale local employers, including Filmco at Sedgefield, and

Black and Decker and Electrolux at Spennymoor relocating or ceasing to trade. This

reduction in local job opportunities within the industry; combined with 29.6% of

residents who hold no educational qualifications highlights a potential need for an

increased provision of skills and training courses. This can help local residents to

retrain or gain new qualifications, skills and experience thus assisting them into long

term employment.

41

Figure 1.15: Occupation profile of 16 to 74 year olds in Aycliffe New Town

Source: Census, 2001, LLSOA KS12A, 009A, 009B, 009D, 009E, 009F, 010A, 010B, 010C, 010D.

During livin’s consultation events concerns were expressed by local residents about

the availability of training and skills courses , poor opportunities for school leavers

and the need to have an outcome or career path after a training and/ or skills course

had ended. Looking into these comments further it appears there is a requirement for

better communicating and awareness of the training that is available within Newton

Aycliffe as it appears not all residents know the opportunities that exist.

Economic inactivity was lower than the County average (39.9%) with a total of 33.1%

of the population not employed, and not actively seeking work. The number of

residents that are retired (9.5%) within the community was significantly lower than

the Durham County average (14.8%).

“Economic inactivity relates to persons aged 16 to 74 years who are not in

employment, or not actively seeking employment and available to start work within 2

weeks.” (Source: Census, 2001)

There is a lower percentage of persons (9.5%) in the community that were unable to

work due to being permanently sick and / or disabled when compared to the County

(10.3%) and this trend is reversed for those who are looking after their home/family

(7.9%) when compared to the County average of 6.3%.

13

8

13

11 12

7 8

16

13

12 9

12 12 13

7 8

13 14

0

2

4

6

8

10

12

14

16

18

Aycliffe New Town

Durham County

42

Figure 1.16: Economic inactivity in Aycliffe New Town Source: Census, 2001, LLSOA KS12A, 009A, 009B, 009D, 009E, 009F, 010A, 010B, 010C, 010D.

Analysis of Department for Works and Pensions (DWP) data from March 2011

highlights that the community of Aycliffe New Town has a higher percentage of

persons who have been claiming Jobseekers Allowance for up to 6 months (76.7%)

when compared to the County average (73.5%).

Longer term unemployment within the community is lower than both County and

National averages. 14.4% of residents have been claiming Jobseekers Allowance

for a period of 6 to 12 months when compared to 18% throughout the County and

17.3% at National level.

This higher percentage of residents claiming Jobseekers Allowance for a period of 6

to 12 months has resulted in the community being ranked as Bronze. It has not

been possible to obtain Ward data that is specific to Aycliffe New Town only and

therefore this ranking is based upon Newton Aycliffe, including Aycliffe Village as a

whole. Full details of the methodology for this ranking can be found in Appendix 2.

However, the percentage of residents claiming Jobseekers Allowance for 12 months

or more (8.9%) is lower than County average of 8.4%, and below the National

average of 14.2%.

Sustainable communities require high levels of economic activity; this can be

facilitated by a high percentage of the resident population being economically active.

9.5

3.5

7.9 9.5

2.7

14.8

5.1

6.3

10.3

3.3

0.0

2.0

4.0

6.0

8.0

10.0

12.0

14.0

16.0

Retired Student Looking afterhome/family

Permanentlysick/disabled

Other

Aycliffe New Town

Durham County

43

Although long term unemployment is low when compared to County and National

levels, it is important that local service providers work in partnership to proactively

identify and minimise the barriers to work experienced by residents who have

become unemployed within the last 12 months.

1.4.2 Jobseekers Allowance Claimants During August 2010, there were a wide age range of residents that were claiming Jobseekers Allowance in Aycliffe New Town (DWP, 2010). 38% of persons claiming Jobseekers Allowance were aged between 16 to 24 years; this being higher than the County average of 34%. The percentage of persons aged 25 to 49 years claiming Jobseekers Allowance (45.78%) was lower than the County average of 52%. The percentage of residents aged 50 years or more claiming Jobseekers Allowance is recorded as 16.11%, this being higher than the Durham County average (14%).

Figure 1.17: Jobseeker Allowance claimants in Aycliffe New Town Source: DWP, August 2010

The percentage of persons aged 16 to 24 and those aged 50 and over that were

claiming Jobseekers Allowance is higher than both County and North East averages.

This highlights a need for service providers to target these age groups when

delivering future skills and training courses. It is important that future skills and

training courses will help the individual to meet their training needs and gain

sustainable employment.

To help reduce unemployment in a community it may be necessary to provide

opportunities that allow residents to retrain and learn new skills that will enable them

to enter new industries and gain sustainable employment.

38.00

45.78

16.11

34.00

52.00

14.00

0.00

10.00

20.00

30.00

40.00

50.00

60.00

Claimants Aged 16-24 Claimants Aged 25-49 Claimants Aged 50 andOver

Aycliffe New Town

Durham County

44

Alternatively there may be a need for increased opportunities for school leavers and

younger residents to obtain work placements in a business environment; this can

help them gain the skills and experience required to obtain sustainable future

employment. livin recognises the need for employment opportunities within its area

of operation, and in conjunction with its partners has launched the “livin Futures”

partnership programme to help provide training, apprenticeships and employment

opportunities.

1.4.3 Department for Works and Pensions Key Benefit Claimants

During August 2010, the total percentage of residents claiming a key DWP out of

work benefit within the community was slightly higher than the Durham County

average of 20%. The majority of residents in Aycliffe New Town claiming a key

benefit were in receipt of Incapacity Benefit (10.3%); this being slightly higher than

the County average which is 10%.

These figures contradict the intelligence contained in Section 1.6 which indicates the

general health of the population within Aycliffe New Town to be better when

compared to the rest of the County.

Figure 1.18: Breakdown of persons residing in Aycliffe New Town claiming key DWP benefits Source: DWP, August 2010

4.1

10.3

2.9

2.0

0.9 1.4

0.2

4.0

10.0

2.0 2.0 1.0 1.0 0.0

0.0

2.0

4.0

6.0

8.0

10.0

12.0

Job Seekers IncapacityBenefits

Lone Parent Carer Others onIncomeRelatedBenefits

Disabled Bereaved

45

During 2001 the weekly

household income in

Aycliffe New Town was

£43 more than the North

East average.

1.4.4 Household Income

During 2001/02 estimates of mean weekly household

income (gross) in the Wards that make up Aycliffe

New Town was £43 per week higher than the North

East average of £410 (ONS 2005).

Data collection limitations have restricted further detailed analysis of this information

as Wards within Newton Aycliife do not exactly match the area of the community

plan.

Based on this intelligence the community has been ranked as GOLD for average

household income. Full details of the methodology for this ranking can be found in

Appendix 2.

Although residents raised no specific concerns during consultation about levels of

household income livin recognises that the effects of the recession and current

economic downturn will be felt by a large number of households within its local

communities.

1.4.5 Vehicle Ownership and Cost of Travel In 2001, 24.4% of households in Aycliffe New Town did not own a car or van; this

being lower than the Durham County average of 31.4%. 45.7% of households

owned one car or van, and the remaining 29.9% owned two or more cars or vans

(Census, 2001, LLSOA, KS17, 009A, 009B, 009D, 009E, 009F, 010A, 010B, 010C,

010D). The 2001 census indicated that 62.85% of residents in Aycliffe New Town

travelled to work driving a car or van (Census, 2001, LLSOA, KS15, 009A, 009B,

009D, 009E, 009F, 010A, 010B, 010C, 010D).

Although levels of vehicle ownership may have altered since 2001, the rising cost of

fuel and other related costs will now have a significant impact on vehicle usage,

particularly amongst low income households. Low levels of vehicle ownership and

restricted use can affect residents’ lifestyles by restricting access to services and

facilities outside of the local area.

Throughout livin’s consultation residents expressed their concerns about the need to

travel outside of the local area for access to big brand shopping, employment

opportunities, and specialist services such as colleges, universities and hospitals.

Although residents did not link these concerns with the increasing cost of travel

relating to vehicle ownership and public bus and taxi services it is important that the

two issues remain closely linked.

This reliance on travel outside of the local area, places an increased need on a

reliable public transport system for households that do not own their own vehicle.

46

There are fears from residents that ongoing budgetary reductions to rural transport

services imposed by DCC will see many residents become more isolated and

detached from obtaining specialist services whilst restricting their ability to gain

sustainable employment. There were specific concerns about access to services for

older persons who are reliant on public transport to meet their travel needs.

1.4.6 Rental Debit in livin properties

To assess the rent payments made by tenants within livin properties in Aycliffe New

Town an analysis and comparison of livin’s rental debit figures for 2009/10 and

2010/11 have been used.

For the financial year 2009/10, the total rental debit charge (rent charged for all of

livin’s properties in Aycliffe New Town) was £3,756,475. At the end of this financial

year there were outstanding arrears (unpaid rent) of £95,756; making an unpaid

rental debit charge of 2.55%.

For the financial year 2010/11 the total rental debit charge was £3,846,773. At the

end of this financial year there were outstanding arrears of £102,289; making an

unpaid rental debit charge of 2.66%.

Based on the unpaid rental debit charge of 2.66% for the financial year 2010/11,

Aycliffe New Town has been ranked as BRONZE. Full details of the methodology

for this ranking can be found in Appendix 2.

Key Economic characteristics:

During 2001/02 the weekly household income estimate was £43 higher than

the North East average of £410.00.

During 2001, economic activity within the community was 66.9%; this is higher

than the Durham County average.

33.1% of residents in 2001 were not in employment, and not actively seeking

work. 9.5% of residents were economically inactive due to being permanently

sick or disabled.

In 2001, 41% of residents in Aycliffe New Town were employed in elementary,

process, plant and machinery roles, or in skilled trades this being higher than

the County average. 34% of residents were employed in professional and

management roles this being higher than the County average of 32.9%.

During March 2011, the percentage of residents claiming Jobseekers

Allowance for up to 6 months was higher than the County average.

The percentage of residents aged 16 to 24 years that are claiming jobseekers

allowance is higher, 38%, when compared to the County average of 34%.

47

By the end of the financial year 2010/11 livin’s outstanding rental debit figure

(unpaid rent) increased to 2.66% a total of £102,289.

Since 2009, livin have introduced and promoted a number of different payment

options to make paying rent as easy and accessible as possible for tenants.

These include Direct Debit or the option to pay their rent via payment card. Payment

cards can be accepted at over 60 local outlets (including Post Offices) wherever the

“Paypoint” sign is displayed

Although there were no specific comments made by residents during consultation

events livin is aware that the rising level of housing costs and the current economic

climate has the potential of increasing the level of debt for low income households

and many community members.

What does this mean for livin?

livin must target this community for immediate action on rent arrears year on year as

the current economic climate and future reforms to the Welfare Benefit system will

provide for challenging times. These challenges will require livin to work proactively

with tenants and other household members by providing a dedicated Financial

Inclusion Team to provide guidance or sign posting about money and debt

management.

The effects of the recession and current economic downturn are being felt by a large

number of households within livin’s local communities. As a result livin must be

mindful that its tenants and local residents will potentially need support through these

financial difficulties. This could mean signposting tenants and residents to debt

management and financial inclusion support agencies, such as, the Durham County

Credit Union recently established covering all of Newton Aycliffe. Currently the Credit

Union operate on a Tuesday from 11am till 12 noon from within the Newton Aycliffe

Library located on Central Avenue.

livin must be aware of the contribution made by partners in supporting residents and

tenants to gain new skills and employment, and increase their economic wellbeing.

It must support local community organisations that offer these services by ensuring

their resources are fully utilised by local residents and that their existence is widely

publicised throughout the local area. When publicising local services and resources

it is important that appropriate methods of communication are utilised. Mosaic profile

data for the community highlights that the majority of households within the village

are more likely to access information and services through direct face to face

contact, or through local papers.

As part of its ongoing commitment to improving economic sustainability within its

communities, livin has appointed an employability coordinator to help develop and

implement its approach to tackling employability issues.

48

Aycliffe New Town has a good selection and access to services and facilities

The levels of long term unemployment within the community are comparable to that

of the Durham County average however it should be noted that the short term

unemployment, 16 to 24 year olds, is higher than the Durham County average. This

will provide real challenges when tackling this age group, however, livin must be

aware of the contribution made by partners in supporting residents and tenants to

gain new skills and employment, and increase their economic wellbeing. It must

support local community organisations that offer these services by ensuring their

resources are fully utilised by local residents and that their existence is widely

publicised throughout the local area.

Consultation has found there to be an identified need for an increased provision of

local skills and training courses that can help local residents attain new skills and

qualifications for employment. It is evident from the analysis that any employability

work undertaken by livin within the community must aid the reduction in the number

of persons claiming Jobseekers Allowance. There should be extra emphasis placed

on those residents aged 16 to 24 years that are claiming Jobseekers Allowance.

livin will also be required to understand the barriers to employment experienced by

local residents and tenants and assess the level of support it can offer. During

consultation events residents told livin that they are particularly concerned about the

requirement to travel outside of the area for employment and the potential this has

for becoming a major barrier to employment due to increasing costs for car

ownership and general transport costs.

1.5 Access to Services and Facilities

Health Services and Healthcare

The village has good access to local health services and healthcare. There are

three local GP centres located in Newton Aycliffe. Aycliffe New Town benefits from

one of these centres in the form of a medical group based within the Pioneering Care

Centre (PCC). There are two dentists’ surgeries in Newton Aycliffe and there will be

a need for some residents to travel to neighbouring settlements, such as Shildon, to

obtain dental care. One of the dentists is within Woodham area. There are two

nearby Accident and Emergency departments in the area; Bishop Auckland General

Hospital and Darlington Memorial Hospital and both hospitals are well equipped and

will liaise with the regional psychiatric teams in the event of mental health cases or

for referral to the West Park Mental Health Hospital based in Darlington. Mental

Health teams, including Child and Adolescent Mental Health (CAMH) operate from

the Pioneering Care Centre, Cobblers Hall. Access to specialist healthcare for

children can also be found at the One Point Hub and SureStart Children’s Centre in

Newton Aycliffe There is also good access to pharmacy provision for the whole of

Newton Aycliffe and Aycliffe New Town has this facility within the PCC.

49

Newton Aycliffe also benefits from the provision of opticians within the community

that can be accessed by residents of both New Town and Old Town.

Retail Services

Retail services for Newton Aycliffe as a whole are generally good with a wide variety

of choice with regard to household and grocery shopping. Within the town centre a

resident could book a holiday, visit charity shops and obtain a selection of food,

however, for specialist large brand shopping or a wide selection of clothing there is a

need for residents to visit nearby Darlington and large surrounding towns and cities.

Aycliffe New Town benefits from two shopping precincts. At Cobblers Hall there is a

small mini supermarket, opticians, turf accountants, beauty salon, veterinary clinic

and numerous takeaway outlets offering Indian, Chinese and local Fish shop cuisine

together with a public house offering meals.

In the shopping centre located in Woodham there is various take away outlets

including a national award winning fish shop, fast food takeaways and Indian cuisine.

The precinct also benefits from hairdressers, newsagents, Post Office, dentist and a

public house again with a facility for offering meals.

During livin’s consultation events residents did not comment upon the retail services

of Aycliffe New Town specifically but generalised there issues to the town centre.

Community Services and Facilities

Generally for residents of Aycliffe New Town access to community services and

facilities will require some travel. The area as a whole benefits from many services

and facilities including the Newton Aycliffe Leisure Centre which offers a wide

variety of activities and facilities including; swimming, gym and fitness suite, indoor

climbing wall, large sports hall, sauna, café and the option to provide for children’s

parties. The Oakleaf Sports Complex close by, offers facilities for squash, football,

bowls, yoga, zumba and pilates classes and table tennis. The Complex also offers

bar and meal facilities. Close to the Complex is the Oakleaf Golf Course and Driving

Range for all residents interested in playing or taking up the sport of Golf. This

opportunity for Golf is also available close to New Town, at the Woodham Golf Club,

close to the outskirts of New Town. Residents can also visit the neighbouring

Newton Aycliffe Industrial Estate to use a bowling alley and numerous other services

and facilities. The area as a whole also has the added value of a Train Station. This

is located near to the Western Ward and allows residents the opportunity to travel to

areas such as; Bishop Auckland, Darlington and Saltburn with connecting services to

locations further afield.

The community benefits from the two communal buildings located within the estate of Silverdale Place. Units 10 & 11 Silverdale Place is currently occupied by a leading mental health charity (Mind) that aims to promote and protect good mental health for

50

all. The charity offers many services including; Advice and Information, careers advice and services, drop in and education and training.

Within units 8/9 is the community house. Silverdale House as it’s referred to locally provides an opportunity for the community to meet and help promote community cohesion through events such as; mother and toddler, lunch club and the recently opened E Café that will allow visitors the opportunity to access the internet. There is currently a number of residents within the Western area that speak Polish and to help address this, the house, provides Polish classes to help encourage community cohesion within the area.

Operating within New Town is the organisation ‘ROCSOLID’ which opened in 2007

to help vulnerable young people, and care leavers in particular, successfully

transition into independent living.

Newton Aycliffe also benefits from a library which is based within the Old Town and

again those residents of New Town will be regarded to travel a short journey to

access the facilities.

There is no public toilet available throughout the whole of Newton Aycliffe however,

residents can access the toilet facilities based within the Tesco Store in the Town

Centre or the Leisure Centre on Beveridge Way.

Aycliffe New Town is the location of the Cemetery. Great Aycliffe Town Council is responsible for the management and maintenance of the Cemetery and has ensured that the needs of mourners and visitors to the cemetery are catered for as sympathetically as possible following consultation with the public, funeral directors and members of the clergy.

Currently within Aycliffe New Town there are no active residents groups affiliated to

livin.

Aycliffe New Town benefits from two places of worship within the community. There

is the ‘Aycliffe Evangelical Church at Stainmore Crescent. The ‘Evangelical’ title has

often conjured up numerous thoughts as to the activities that this place or worship

delivers but a little known fact is the word ‘Evangelical’ means sharing the good

news of Jesus Christ. There is also the Church of St Elizabeth of Hungary based

within Woodham offering not only a place of worship but also offering coffee

mornings, movie dome and children’s film clubs.

Pioneering Care Partnership (PCP)

The Pioneering Care Partnership is a local charity whose aim is to improve people’s health and wellbeing. The charity is responsible for running the Pioneering Care Centre in Aycliffe New Town next to the Cobblers Hall development, and a number of outreach projects in local communities across County Durham and Darlington.

51

The Pioneering Care Centre is a local healthy living center, which is run by the PCP. The center offers a variety of services and activities to help people of all ages and abilities to improve their health and wellbeing. Services and activities include: complementary therapies, hydrotherapy pool, exercise classes, learning, advice and guidance sessions and courses, conference and meeting room facilities, Macmillan Cancer Information and Support Service, The Mall Coffee Shop, Jubilee Medical Centre, The Village Pharmacy and the Community Mental Health Team. During livin’s consultation residents commented in a positive manner regarding the services and facilities offered within the Centre.

Services and Facilities for Children and Young Persons

Newton Aycliffe has twelve parks in the Parish, all owned and maintained to a high

standard by Great Aycliffe Town Council. The Town Park and St Oswald’s Park have

staff in attendance on a daily basis to maintain the grounds, while their Parks Patrol

Service monitors all parks during the day, evening and at weekends to ensure that

their facilities provide an enjoyable and safe visit. A list of the parks more specific to

Aycliffe New Town are as follows;

Byerley Park - NEW TOWN Byerley Park has a junior play area with swings, two multi play units and a small kickabout area with fixed goal posts. Horndale Park - NEW TOWN Horndale Park is located in Greenfield Way, Newton Aycliffe. It has a large

recreation area with a fenced children’s’ kickabout football area and play equipment

for toddlers and juniors. The play area includes multi activity units, swings, springer

see saw and a slide.

Woodham Park - NEW TOWN Woodham Park is situated on Woodham Way, although it can also be accessed from

the Great Aycliffe Way. The Park has a multi-unit games activity, junior play

equipment and separate infants’ play area as well as section which may be used for

BMXing. There is also a basketball practice area.

Scott Place Play Area – NEW TOWN The fenced play equipment consists of several multi activity units, swings, slide and

springer’s.

52

Children and young people can also visit the local Eco Centre; again this is based

within Old Town but has such a range of facilities that a short journey by residents of

Aycliife New Town may prove beneficial.

The Centre was developed by the Great Aycliffe Town Council as an Environmental

Education Centre that is available for various environmental, education or outdoor

purposes.

The Centre is well located to provide environment activities. There is a fenced children’s’ play facility that provides an ideal place to teach environmental education and games in a secure location. There are also substantial woodland, wild grassland, scrub and wetland habitats that provide a mixed resource for teaching purposes. The extensive amenity grassland that surrounds the Centre is both a resource to allow children to learn in an outdoor setting and to burn off some energy. Again based in the Old Town is the Newton Aycliffe Youth Centre which offers a wide range of facilities including; sports coaching, health and beauty, nail art, games, cinema nights and DJ skills but to name a few. The Centre offers curriculum time support and accreditation resulting in nationally recognised certificates and qualifications. Residents of Aycliffe New Town will need to travel a short distance to utilise the services available at the Centre. Other facilities for young children and young adults within the community of Aycliffe New Town include the ‘ Acorn Players’, predominantly a ‘youth’ drama group of ages 11 to adult. The group stages mainly pantomimes held at the Woodham Community Technology College. There is a ‘Aycliffe Dance Academy’ catering for children ranging from the ages of two and a half years all the way up to adults. The Academy offers classes on tap and modern, ballet, acrobatics, zumba fitness, cheerleading etc. This facility is operated from within the Bethany Centre on Woodham Way. For the sporting young people from the ages of 4 plus there is the option within the community to attend the ‘ Greenfield Tennis Club’ which offer not only social and competitive tennis for all ages but coaching to improve your skills. The club is run from within Greenfield School on Greenfields Way.

During 2011/2012, one of the key priorities for the

Great Aycliffe and Middridge AAP, as voted for by

Forum members, was the provision of “Activities for

young people”. At the 2011 AAP Forum event

“Activities for young people” was again voted by forum

members to be most the important priority for the AAP

to tackle.

As a result this will remain a key priority for the Great

Aycliffe and Middridge AAP throughout 2012/2013.

It can be seen that facilities for young people is in

abundance for all the young people of Newton Aycliffe catering for many different

“Kids need more

access to activities, a

bus up to the new ice

rink on the industrial

estate would be

brilliant”

Young person from

Newton Aycliffe

53

wants, needs and potential engagement opportunities and the locations are spread

across the whole area. There are a few within Aycliffe New Town and a greater

number of opportunities for those residents in Old Town but travel within this

spectrum is small and should not hinder any young person wishing to access all that

is available.

Technology and Communication

The village is currently served by a broadband Internet connection. The cost

implications of a broadband internet connection within the home may prove

unaffordable for some households. Free internet access is available at the library

based within the Town Centre.

Research has shown that having broadband in a community will not only support

businesses but families too, whether that be aiding children in studies or a family

accessing goods and commodities at competitive prices though internet sites.

The community can benefit from the recently opened internet café facility within

Silverdale House. This will allow the community the opportunity to access the World

Wide Web.

In 1948 the first Community Newspaper for Newton Aycliffe was established. The ‘

Newton News’ is delivered free to all homes and boasts a readership of over 45,000

including ex- Newtonians all over the world.

Mosaic profile data indicates that the majority of livin tenant’s within the community

are likely to access information and services through direct face to face contact or

through local papers. Only households in Group E which is likely to be 1.31% of

households in the village are likely to access information through the internet or

interactive television. Using Mosaic data for the whole of Newton Aycliffe

households in Group E, (Middle income families living in moderate suburban semis),

which is likely to be 9.17% of household, are likely to access information through the

internet or interactive television.

Public Transport

A recent survey of residents living within the Great Aycliffe and Middridge AAP area

indicated that 69% were satisfied with public transport; this being the fourth lowest

levels of satisfaction throughout the County (DCC, 2010). However, feedback from

livin’s consultation event found that many residents were very pleased and happy

with the service and access to public transport within the community as a whole but

there was a few negative comments regarding the reduction of services that had

hindered the running times of the service. The bus service provided by Arriva travels

to Bishop Auckland, Durham, Darlington, Ferryhill, Peterlee, Sedgefield and

Sunderland and as such demonstrates a wide selection of destinations.

54

There is the X61 express to Whitby and Scarborough which runs only during early

spring to late summer which is also provided by Arriva.

By road, the A167 is the main road to the town; it runs to Durham and Newcastle

upon Tyne (30 Miles) in the north and Darlington (8 Miles) and Northallerton in the

south.

The A1 (M) is near to the town and runs to Edinburgh in the north and London to the

south, it provides as an alternative route to Durham and Newcastle in the north.

The A689 is also near the town and it runs to Bishop Auckland in the west and

Hartlepool and Teesside in the east.

By rail, the Newton Aycliffe railway station, which is on the Tees Valley Line, has

train services provided by Northern Rail to Bishop Auckland, Darlington, Saltburn,

and connecting services to Edinburgh and London.

During livin’s consultation residents commented that they did not feel this to be a

great service but that may be in respect of frequency.

Greener living

Within the community of Aycliffe New Town there are two allotment sites managed

and owned by Great Aycliffe Town Council are situated at Byerley Park and St

Oswalds. Byerley Park has 13 plots available for cultivation of fruit, vegtables and

flowers and St Oswalds, the largest of the sites, has 74 plots available with an

additional 43 plots added in the autumn of 2011. Although livin owns a number of

garden sites in other communities there are none located within Newton Aycliffe.

During consultation there were comments in relation to the lack of healthy food

outlets within the community and no comments in relation to ‘grow your own’ or

allotment / garden provision in relation to healthy eating.

55

What does this mean for livin?

livin needs to be aware of the positive impact that local services and service

providers can have on sustaining local communities.

livin must understand the pressures that local communities are under as a result of

service cuts, and work in partnership with organisations such as DCC to ensure that

the effects of any service reductions are minimal and that tenants, residents and

service providers are aware of their implications.

There may be opportunities for livin to help promote services and facilities available

within the community. livin currently have a large stock stake and as such could

promote and advertise what is available to the community as a whole. This

promotion and advertising will not only raise the profile of livin within community but

also help to identify important issues such as access and availability as a

consequence. There may be a potential for close partnership working to help resolve

any problems raised.

It is important that any promotion or publicity around raising awareness of local

services and facilities that can be accessed by residents is appropriate to their

communication preferences. Mosaic profile data indicates that the majority of livin

tenant’s within New Town are more likely to access information and services through

direct face to face contact or through local papers. Using profile data for the whole of

Newton Aycliffe it is expected that approximately a quarter of residents are more

receptive to telephone, internet and interactive television.

Key Services Characteristics:

The community has good health and health care provision with a one medical

group, a pharmacy and a dentist.

Residents are required to travel out of the local area to access large brand

shopping and wide selection of clothing outlets but does benefit from a large

supermarket store.

The community has access to public services and amenities located within the

community and the local area.

Information from livin’s consultation with regard to the public transport service in

the area is good with many residents feeling that the current provision, although

reduced, provides good access to a number of local towns and cities. There is

also good road transport and opportunity for rail links located close to Aycliffe

New Town.

Aycliffe New Town benefits from 3 local play areas and 12 play areas in total

throughout Newton Aycliffe. All areas offer a selection of play equipment and

facilities for sporting activities. All parks are maintained by the Great Aycliffe Town

Council.

56

During 2001, the number of

persons in “Good” health in

Aycliffe New Town was

5.2% higher than the

County average.

1.6 Health and Well Being

The general level of health in Aycliffe New Town is

better than that of the County as a whole (Census,

2001, LLSOA, KS08, 009A, 009B, 009D, 009E,

009F, 010A, 010B, 010C, 010D ). The total

percentage of persons in “Good” general health is

5.2% higher than the County average. The

percentage of residents who indicated that they were in “Not Good” general health is

2.4% lower when compared to the County average.

2001 Census data indicates that 18.33% of persons of working age suffer from a

limiting long term illness (Census, 2001, LLSOA, KS08, 009A, 009B, 009D, 009E,

009F, 010A, 010B, 010C, 010D). This is lower than the County average of 19.8%.

“A limiting long-term illness covers any long-term illness, health problem or disability

that limits daily activities or work. Working age is defined as persons aged between

16 to 64 years inclusive for men and 16 to 59 years inclusive for women.”

(Census 2001)

Figure 1.19: Levels of Health within Aycliffe New Town

Source: Census, 2001, LLSOA, KS08, 009A, 009B, 009D, 009E, 009F, 010A, 010B, 010C, 010D.

The percentage of Incapacity Benefit claimants within the community is slightly

higher than average. During 2010, 10.33% of residents within Aycliffe New Town

were claiming incapacity benefit (DWP, 2010). This is 0.33% higher than the

Durham County and 3.33% higher than the national average.

Mosaic profile data for livin tenant’s within the village finds that households in Group

O, consisting of families in low-rise social housing with high levels of benefit need,

have a “very high” likelihood of being a smoker. This total is likely to be more than

70% of households located within the village.

67.8

21.3

10.8

62.6

24.2

13.2

0.0

10.0

20.0

30.0

40.0

50.0

60.0

70.0

80.0

General health:Good

General health:Fairly good

General health:Not good

Aycliffe New Town

Durham County

57

The profile data for the whole of Newton Aycliffe illustrates the highest resident

group, Group K, (28.91%), which is resident’s with sufficient incomes in right to buy

social housing, have a ‘very high’ likelihood of being a smoker.

Compared to national figures the level of health related deprivation within Great

Aycliffe and Middridge AAP is high. The 2010 Indices of Deprivation highlights that

37.0% of residents living within the AAP area are deemed to be in the top 10%

nationally deprived.

This percentage is higher when compared to the Durham County average where

27.5% of residents are deemed to be in the top 10% nationally deprived (CLG,

2010). It is however important to remember that this data relates to the areas of

Newton Aycliffe, Aycliffe Village, and part of School Aycliffe. Therefore the varying

levels of deprivation within each of the electoral wards within the AAP area will have

an impact on the overall level of deprivation in the area, and may not be a true

reflection of Aycliffe New Town alone.

Health provision and service within Newton Aycliffe as an area is good with doctors

and dentists available to serve the community. Within Aycliffe New Town there is a

medical group and pharmacy within the PCC together with a dentist surgery located

with Woodham. Feedback from livin’s consultation events found that residents were

happy and satisfied with the health facilities and services available with the only

generalised negative remarks being around the need to publicise health facilities and

also a request for health groups and providers to be more involved with the

community in the form of community meetings and events. Access to hospitals and

specialist healthcare can be found at Durham, Darlington, Hartlepool and Stockton,

all requiring access to transport.

The nearest hospitals are located at Bishop Auckland, Durham and Darlington,

although Bishop Auckland does not provide access to Accident and Emergency

Services. Access to hospital services within 30 minutes, for residents living within

Aycliffe New Town is deemed to be poor when walking, using public transport, or

cycling. However, 100% of residents living within Aycliffe New Town are deemed to

be able to access a hospital within 30 minutes when travelling by car (NHS Choices,

2009). Mosaic profile data for livin tenant’s indicates that emergency hospital

admissions for households in profile Group O, (70.90%), consisting of family

households, is ‘high’.

Access to family related support services can be found in Newton Aycliffe or

neighbouring Shildon.

There is access to a Medical Group and pharmacy within the community.

58

The newly created One Point service hub which is based in the existing Newton

Aycliffe Youth Centre or the SureStart Children’s Centre located on Stephenson Way

in Newton Aycliffe, offers a one stop shop approach with staff from Durham County

Council, the local Health Authority and others family related service providers.

Residents can also access the existing the neighbouring SureStart Children’s Centre

at Shildon. The Centres provide a number of health based services including advice

and support on adopting a healthy lifestyle, healthy eating and nutrition for children

and families, and access to health visitors and other health related professionals.

When asked about the provision of health related facilities and activities within the

community residents had raised issues about the cost of gym membership restricting

usage by residents but had no concerns regarding the leisure centre itself were the

gym is located.

The residents of Aycliffe New Town will need to travel a small distance to access the

leisure centre but no residents during consultation had any concerns over doing so.

Provision of play areas within Aycliffe New Town attracted no comments from

residents during consultation and the park areas themselves offer a good range of

facilities, including, football, swings, multi play and equipment for toddlers and juniors

alike. Both parks are maintained to a high standard by Great Aycliffe Town Council.

The Pioneering Care Partnership (PCP) is a local charity whose aim is to improve

people’s health and wellbeing. The charity is responsible for running the Pioneering

Care Centre (PCC) within Aycliffe New Town and provides a number of outreach

projects in local communities across County Durham and Darlington. (Further details

of the PCC are identified in Section 1.5).

Great Aycliffe Town Council owns and manages a total of 5 sites throughout Newton

Aycliffe that are used for growing vegetables and flowers. Two of these sites are

within Aycliffe New Town with additional provision for pigeon lofts at St Oswald’s

Allotment Site. The other site being located at Byerley Park. The need to involve

residents in more health related activities and events held within the local area could

help residents adopt a healthier lifestyle and potentially deliver long term benefits.

The Town Council works closely with allotment representatives and working in

partnership may see the delivery of a health related project around growing and

producing of fruit and vegetables.

59

What does this mean for livin?

There has been a long established connection between health and housing. As a

result of the Government’s Health Reform proposals a stronger role will emerge for

livin to act in partnership with local health providers to improve the health and

wellbeing of tenants and their families.

As a “frontline” service provider livin has privileged access to tenants and their

families. This can provide the potential for signposting to health related services and

enable targeted actions that can help enhance health levels within the community.

Good levels of health can have positive effects on educational achievement and can

help increase the employment levels within a community.

Statistical data and intelligence highlights there to be good levels of health within

Aycliffe New Town when compared to the rest of Durham County. It is important that

livin utilises involvement and interaction with tenants and their families to maintain

and even enhance health levels. This will provide real challenges for livin when

tackling health related issues and increasing employability and access to work for its

tenant and local residents within the community.

There may be a number of local and national projects that livin can support that will

link to the preventative health agenda; making it critical that livin works in partnership

with other local health based stakeholders to ensure maximum use of resources. It

is important that health related activities and facilities within the community are

accessible and affordable by all.

Key Health Characteristics:

During 2001, general levels of health in the neighbourhood were notably better

when compared to the County average.

18.33% of “working age” residents are suffering from a limiting long term

illness which is lower than the County but higher than the North East

averages.

Aycliffe New Town has good access to health services with a medical group,

dentist and pharmacy located within the community.

There is access to health based facilities and activities. Residents must travel to

Newton Aycliffe Town Centre to access a Leisure Centres.

There is good access to outdoor recreational facilities within the community.

60

2001 census data

indicates that 29.6%

of residents have no

qualifications.

1.7 Education and Training

Levels of educational attainment within Aycliffe New

Town are broadly comparable when compared to the

Durham County averages (Census, 2001, LLSOA,

KS13, 009A, 009B, 009D, 009E, 009F, 010A, 010B,

010C, 010D). It should be noted that the Census data

used is an average of nine ward totals and as such illustrates ‘hotspots’ of low

educational attainment.

2001 Census data indicates an average of 29.6% of the population in the community

have no formal qualifications.

The percentages of residents attaining level 1 (19.9%) is higher than the Durham

County average however those residents that achieved level 2 (19.9%) qualifications

is higher than the Durham County average. Level 1 qualifications include 1+'O' level

passes; 1+ CSE/GCSE any grades; NVQ level 1; or Foundation level GNVQ. Level

2 qualifications include 5+GCSEs (grades A-C); 1+ 'A' levels/'AS' levels; NVQ level

2; or Intermediate GNVQ.

Based on 21.9% percentage of residents attaining level 2 qualifications (5+ GCSEs

A-C grades) the community has been ranked as GOLD for educational attainment.

Full details of the methodology for this ranking can be found in Appendix 2.

Figure 1.20: Educational attainment within Aycliffe New Town

Source: Census, 2001, LLSOA, KS13, 009A, 009B, 009D, 009E, 009F, 010A, 010B, 010C, 010D.

29.6

19.9 21.9

7.0

14.1

7.6

36.0

17.0 18.1

7.4

14.5

7.1

0.0

5.0

10.0

15.0

20.0

25.0

30.0

35.0

40.0

Aycliffe New Town

Durham County

61

There is good access to nursery, primary and secondary school education within

the community.

7% of residents hold qualifications at level 3; this being less than the County average

of 7.4%. Level 3 qualifications are necessary for advancement into University,

higher education or professional qualifications and include 2+ 'A' levels; 4+ 'AS'

levels; NVQ level 3; or an Advanced GNVQ.

There are also a lower percentage of residents (14.1%) that hold qualifications at

levels 4/5 when compared to the County average (14.5%). A level 4/5 qualification is

equivalent to a First Degree, Higher Degree, NVQ levels 4 and 5, HNC, HND, or

professional qualifications including qualified teacher, medical doctor, dentist, nurse,

midwife, or health visitor.

This low percentage of residents educated to degree or professional is reflected in

the low number of residents employed in roles as Professionals (doctors, dentists,

and teachers).

Mosaic profile data for livin’s tenants within the community highlights that households

within Groups O and K, families in low-rise social housing with high levels of benefit

need , and residents with sufficient incomes in right to buy social houses are unlikely

to be educated to degree level.

The 2010 Indices of Deprivation indicates that in relation to education, 16.1% of

residents living in the Great Aycliffe and Middridge AAP area are deemed to be in

the top 10% nationally deprived (CLG, 2010). This is comparable to the Durham

County average where only 15.3% of residents are deemed to be in the top 10%

nationally deprived.

It is however important to remember that this data relates to the areas of Newton

Aycliffe, Aycliffe Village, and part of School Aycliffe. Therefore the varying levels of

deprivation within each of the electoral wards within the AAP area will have an

impact on the overall level of deprivation in the area, and may not be a true reflection

of Aycliffe New Town alone.

Within the community there are six educational establishments. Out of the six

establishments there are five primary schools and three of these have nursery

provision. There is Walworth School that provides education for approximately 60

pupils and has provision for a nursery. This school during their last OFSTED

inspection received a “GOOD “report. There is Horndale Infants School providing

learning for approximately 160 pupils with nursery provision and their recent

OFSTED inspection they received an “EXCELLENT” report. St Joseph’s Roman

Catholic Voluntary Aided Primary School accommodating close to 170 pupils with

62

nursery provision and a report of “GOOD” at their last OFSTED inspection. Byerley

Park Primary School also received a “GOOD” report catering for around 220 pupils

but does not have nursery provision. The remaining primary school is St Francis

Church of England Aided Junior School that can has around 115 pupils and received

their latest OFSTED report as “EXCELLENT”.

The secondary educational establishment within Aycliffe New Town is Greenfield

Community College that has close to 770 pupils aged between 11 to 16 and their

most recent OFSTED inspection they received a “SATISFACTORY” report. There is

also another secondary school close by in the Old Town are, namely, Woodham

Community College and achieved an OFSTED report

of “GOOD” at their latest inspection.

St Francis Church of England Aided Junior and St

Joseph’s RC Aided Primary in the community are

classed as “faith” schools within the area.

To follow this path of education the nearest “faith”

secondary school is St John’s Catholic School and

Sixth form centre in Bishop Auckland.

The nearest further education colleges are located at Bishop Auckland, Durham and

Darlington; again all requiring access to public or private transport.

There is no SureStart provision within Aycliffe New Town although the Centre can be

accessed with a short journey to Stephenson Way located in the Old Town part of

Newton Aycliffe. The centres provide access to information, help and support,

together with access to preschool education and day care for local families with

children under the age of five.

The Local Learning Partnership (LLP) is a partnership of local centres and learning

providers which aims to provide learning opportunities to residents within the local

community. The LLP’s for Newton Aycliffe and neighbouring Shildon offer a range of

non-accredited and accredited courses ranging from DIY, music and performing arts

to exercise and healthy eating in various community venues, including Community

Centres, and Children’s Centres. There are also a number of courses and activities

provided at the local Community Colleges in both Newton Aycliffe and Shildon.

Within Aycliffe New Town courses are currently operated from the Agnew

Community Centre, Greenfield Community and Arts Centre, Woodham Village

Community Centre and the PCC.

In partnership with Bishop Auckland College, Newton Aycliffe Community Learning

Centre (Old Town) provides a number of educational courses, including access to

basic skills, first aid course, computer courses and Work Clubs.

“Really good schools

in the area and lots of

choice”

Resident from Newton

Aycliffe

63

The PCC also provides free confidential advice and guidance to anyone who is

currently unemployed and looking to return to volunteering, training or employment,

and provides a range of community based learning courses.

At the 2011 AAP Forum event “Employment, Enterprise, Education and Training”

was voted one of the three most important priorities for the AAP to tackle by the local

community. As a result this will be a key priority for the Great Aycliffe and Middridge

AAP throughout 2012/2013

livin is aware of the potential need for an increased provision of training, skills based

and educational courses within its local communities. As a result of the current

economic crisis and increased competition for employment opportunities there may

be a need for increased support and advice services that can help local residents

secure future long term employment or enable them to enter further or higher

education.

During consultation there was comments regarding education and training and

residents were happy with the schools in regard to educational provision and access

and demonstrated an awareness of training courses available to them.

Although there was a few comments in relation to a need for more training for adults

and a need for practical skills courses around trade skills.

Given this feedback livin are aware of the potential need for an increased provision

of training and skills based educational courses within its local communities.

As a result of the current economic crisis and increased competition for employment

opportunities there may be a need for increased support and advice services that

can help local residents secure future long term employment or enable them to enter

further or higher education.

Key Education Characteristics:

In 2001, 29.6% of residents within the neighbourhood held no formal

educational qualifications; this is lower than the Durham County average.

21.9% of residents within the neighbourhood have attained qualifications at level

2 (5+ GCSE’s grades A-C or equivalent).

14.1% of residents within the neighbourhood are educated to Degree or

Professional level. This is lower than the Durham County average.

There is good access to pre-school and primary education within the

neighbourhood. The primary schools obtained OFSTED reports ranging from

“GOOD” to “EXCELLENT” at the most recent inspection. Residents stated the

schools to be good.

Access to secondary education is available within the local area.

Access to other further and higher education colleges at Bishop Auckland,

Durham and Darlington require access to public or private transport.

64

What does this mean for livin?

Education is a cornerstone of a sustainable community as it will promote financial

inclusion and help increase economic activity.

It is likely that at least 29.6% of residents in the community have no formal

educational qualifications, this being lower than the Durham County average but

slightly higher than the average for England. Although livin cannot play a direct role

in the provision of education there may be opportunities to link with local education

and training providers such as SureStart, local schools, and colleges, Newton

Aycliffe Community Learning Centre and the Local Learning Partnership to help

increase educational opportunities for its tenants and local residents.

It is also important that livin work in close partnership with local primary and

secondary schools to help increase educational attainment, inspire confidence and

raise the aspirations of the children and young persons within its communities.

Intelligence and community feedback highlights that residents aged 16 to 24 and 50

years or older find it difficult to access employment. This highlights opportunities for

livin, and other educational providers to explore the feasibility of providing training

and educational opportunities for residents within the village.

1.8 Reputation of the Local Area and Community Cohesion

To increase sustainability within an area it is important that the community is seen as

a good place to live with high levels of community cohesion.

Feedback gained from livin’s consultation events indicates that Newton Aycliffe is

generally perceived to be a good place to live although it is fair to say that some

residents felt there to be a need to improve the reputation and cohesion of the

community with certain targeted improvements. These targeted improvements were

mainly labelled at the Town Centre and not to Aycliffe New Town specifically.

A poor reputation for an area can last for many years and remain regardless of

significant changes and improvement to social, economic and environmental factors.

A reputation even if it is a perception, can have a detrimental effect on housing

demand within a community. It can also tarnish the reputation of the local

community and that of the RP’s providing social housing within the community.

What does this mean to livin?

It is important that as the largest provider of social housing within the community,

livin understands its role as “place maker” within the community. livin is aware that

to increase the reputation of a community and to enhance community cohesion the

involvement of local residents and other service providers (including other RP’s) is

paramount.

65

To enable the success of this Community Plan and the achievement of the Local

Offers it is important that local residents and community groups play an important

role. The involvement of the local community when determining key priorities and

delivering Local Offers can help empower local residents to make a difference in

their local communities, and develop partnership working to improve the overall

reputation of the community and enhance community cohesion.

1.9 Local Environment

The majority of feedback received from residents during livin’s consultation events

focused on the current appearance and quality of the

local environment in and around Newton Aycliffe as a

whole. Residents were particularly concerned about

the condition of public footpaths, dog fouling and litter,

parking problems around local schools, graffiti in

some areas, poor condition of grassed areas and

trees together with a general need for clean ups and

tidy ups on a regular basis. The full range of

community views and opinions relating to the local

environment can be found in Appendix 2.

Great Aycliffe Town Council has a Works and Environmental Services Section that

provides a range of skilled services to the Council covering the management and

maintenance of parks, cemeteries, open spaces, play areas, golf course, sports

pitches, allotments, trees and woodlands, buildings, bus shelters, street furniture and

the Christmas lighting display.

In addition, the Works and Environmental Services Section supports other areas within the Council such as the Golf Driving Range, Pre-School Learning Centres, improvement projects, Great Aycliffe Way, Nature Park and School Aycliffe Woodlands as well as assisting with all outside events. In effect, the Works and Environmental Services Section service provision has an impact on the majority of Council services.

livin Environmental Assessment

On the 11 January 2012 an Environmental Assessment of the community was

conducted by members of livin’s Communities Team. The Assessment was

completed by assessing a number of environmental indicators at five designated

“stopping” points on a pre-determined route through the community. At the

designated stopping points a number of environmental indicators were assessed and

a number of points awarded.

During the assessment there were a number of highlighted issues relating to

damaged pathways, poor condition of some grassed areas, fly tipping, untidy shrubs

“Litter is a bit of an

issue, particularly in

the town centre and

park areas”

Resident from Newton

Aycliffe

66

and trees, poor fencing and the need to improve the aesthetics of properties. These

comments highlighted ‘hot spot’ areas of improvement needs and the comments

tend not to be across the whole assessed area.

Based on the points awarded at the pre-determined stopping points, the community

scored a total average value of 27. As a result the overall condition of the

community has been ranked as SILVER. The full methodology relating to the

Environmental Assessment can be found in Appendix 2.

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Figure 1.21: Route of Environmental Assessment

What does this mean for livin?

A good Environmental Assessment scoring and Silver ranking is a good result for the

community. It means that the community does not require intensive support and

may only require targeted work in specific hotspot areas. It is important that livin

ensure that future Environmental Assessments are conducted at appropriate

intervals to ensure the community is able to maintain or improve its current ranking.

As a result of community feedback, and livin’s Environmental Assessment a number

of hotspot areas within Aycliffe New Town have been identified. Although livin

cannot play a lead role in targeted environmental improvements at all hotspot areas

within the community it is important that a partnership approach be adopted with

DCC, GAMP AAP, Great Aycliffe Town Council and other local service providers

and community groups to facilitate the enhancement and improvement of these

areas.

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livin is committed to ensuring that its local communities remain clean, tidy and

pleasant places to live. As such it will adopt a robust approach to taking action on

those tenants who breach their Tenancy Agreement by allowing their property’s

garden to become overgrown and untidy.

69

Based on the information contained within this Community Plan livin has been able

to identify and assess a number of key strengths and challenges that are being faced

by residents living in the community of Aycliffe New Town, although, it’s important to

note that some of the priorities identified may relate to services and facilities used by

the community within Newton Aycliffe as a whole.

To improve the levels of sustainability within this community it is important that key

strengths are maintained; together with conscientious efforts being made by livin,

other community stakeholders and local residents to address and reduce identified

challenges.

Actions have been established for livin in most of the themes in this plan by way of

enhancing the efforts of partners and identifying new areas in which livin can add to

sustaining the community socially, economically and environmentally.

Taking into account these challenges livin has developed five key priorities for the

community:

The development of these key priorities and the creation of realistic Local Offers that

can be used by livin, community stakeholders and local residents to address and

achieve them will enable the maximisation of internal and external resources

available throughout the community.

Develop a partnership approach to introducing, supporting, and maintaining a

range of diversionary activities for children and young persons (including older

teenagers).

Maintain a partnership approach to help reduce the fear of crime and antisocial

behaviour within the community and aim to assist in the reduction of incidents

of low level crime and antisocial behaviour.

Together with key stakeholders and partners assist with targeted environmental

improvements to hotspot areas within the Community.

Develop a partnership approach to reducing barriers to work and increasing

employment opportunities for local residents, specifically those aged 16 to 24

years, and 50 years and over (including supporting the provision of local skills

and training courses).

Support and offer the community access to affordable homes that meet need

and future population demands.

Section 2 Community Priorities

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The original actions contained within this Community Plan were revised in March

2013.

Based on what livin has learnt from your community, and our work with local partners

we have now developed a set of Local Offers for Aycliffe New Town. The Local

Offers have taken into account the original actions from the community plan and the

views of the community obtained through consultation, leading to a new set of

standards and actions aimed at supporting and benefiting your area. Delivery of the

Local Offers will be monitored by livin tenants.

A copy of livin’s Local Offers for Aycliffe New Town can be found on our website at

www.livin.co.uk.

This main Community Plan will be revised in 2014.

Section 3 Review of the Community Plan

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APPENDIX 1

livin STRATEGIC FRAMEWORK

&

REGULATORY REQUIREMENTS

72

livin Strategic Framework

livin’s role as a Registered Provider of social housing extends beyond managing

houses. This has been identified within livin’s Corporate Plan for 2012 – 2015 which

highlights the importance of improving the economic viability of local communities,

followed by social factors such as health and education, and enhancing the local

environment.

As such livin is focused on supporting the development of sustainable communities

for the current and future generation of residents. This is articulated through the

Company’s vision, mission and personality which are;

Mission “working with the community at heart”

Vision “sustaining and growing safe, cohesive and vibrant communities through

excellent customer services”

Personality “Caring, supportive, helpful and community orientated”

It is acknowledged that livin can play a key role in contributing to the delivery of

sustainable communities. By developing strong and coordinated partnership working

with residents and key stakeholders livin will develop:

Prosperous Communities - addressing economic viability of communities by

helping people to improve their financial circumstances, become less dependent

on benefits, positively address employability and increase financial confidence.

Healthy Communities – addressing social wellbeing, community cohesion and

health inequalities by improving health and wellbeing, secure access to further

opportunities and develop their aspirations.

Green Communities – addressing environmental quality and sustainability by

enhancing the setting of homes and promoting and supporting green initiatives in

communities.

During April 2011, livin introduced the “Your Voice, Local Choice”, Local Offer

document to ensure that “the right services are delivered in the right place for the

right people”. The Local Offer is a list of ten pledges that livin has made to tenants in

order to deliver key priorities. Full details of the pledges contained in livin’s Local

Offer can be found on the website at livin.co.uk or alternatively a copy can be

requested by contacting livin on 0845 505 5500 or 0300 111 2234 (low rate from a

mobile depending on network).

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In addition to helping livin work towards sustaining and growing safe, cohesive, and

vibrant communities the Community Plans will play an important role in shaping and

articulating the Local Offer to tenants. They are the delivery mechanism for the

pledges contained within the Offer and will enable livin, community stakeholders and

local residents to tailor services and resources to the specific needs of each

individual community and enhance local service delivery. This relationship is

illustrated in the diagram below:

The development and implementation of the Community Plans represents a strategic

change in livin’s approach to supporting the sustainability of communities and will

help deliver the corporate improvement themes of “Customer Focussed Services”

and “Efficient Assets” by:

improving lives and communities

improving customer involvement and empowerment, and

increasing the sustainability of tenancies and homes

The Plans will be utilised to inform and enhance livin’s strategic planning and asset

management framework whilst helping to deliver customer and community focused

investment. They have an impact on all areas of service delivery, renewal and

regeneration, and have departmental cross cutting themes.

Local Offer

Established guiding principles

Locality 1

Byers Green

Kirk Merrington

Middlestone Moor

Spennymoor Town

Locality 2

Dean Bank

Ferryhill Village &

Cleves Cross West

Cornforth

Bishop Middleham

Chilton & Chilton Lane

Locality 3

Trimdon Village

Trimdon Grange

Trimdon Colliery

Fishburn

Sedgefield

Locality 4

Shildon

Middridge

Locality 5

Aycliffe Old Town

Aycliffe New Town

Aycliffe Village

Neighbourhood Plan Strategy

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Each Plan takes into account a whole spectrum of current national, regional and

local strategic agendas whilst retaining enough flexibility to address future emerging

policy and structural changes at all levels. They complement the Government’s

Localism Bill by facilitating and empowering local communities to improve local

services in their local area and careful consideration has also been given to relevant

housing strategies adopted by Durham County Council and the implications of the

Housing and Communities Agency (HCA) new role in regulating social landlords.

Tenant Services Authority Regulatory Requirements

The development and implementation of Community Plans also reflects livin’s

commitment to adhering to the Tenant Services Authority’s (TSA) current regulatory

regime. This regime requires livin to meet six separate service standards:

Tenant Involvement and Empowerment

Home

Tenancy

Neighbourhood and Community

Value for Money

Governance and Financial Viability

Comprehensive consultation to support each Plan will help livin enhance customer

services and encourage local residents to become more responsible for local

services and the improvement of their communities thus addressing the Tenant

Involvement and Empowerment standard.

The Home standard will be addressed by assessing the current condition of the

current housing stock in each community to ensure that it is of high quality, well

maintained and suitable for demand.

It is crucial that the Tenancy standard be incorporated into the outcomes of the

Community Plan through the consideration and effective use of lettings policies, rent

management policies and the enhancement of tenancy sustainment.

As part of the Neighbourhood and Community standard livin is required to deliver on

three separate outcomes; local cooperation, antisocial behaviour and community

management. All of these will outcomes will be considered and addressed within the

outcomes of each Plan.

The Plans will also address the Value for Money standard by ensuring that livin

prioritise resources based on the actual needs and requirements of local residents

whilst enabling confidence for external stakeholders and businesses to invest in the

communities.

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Durham County Council Strategic Framework

Durham County Council’s “Sustainable Communities” Strategy 2010-2030 is the

overarching plan for delivering long lasting improvements throughout the County. It

sets out five key strategic priority themes that will be focused on during the next 20

years:

Altogether Wealthier

Altogether Better for Children and Young People

Altogether Healthier

Altogether Safer

Altogether Greener

Whilst, Registered Providers are essential partners in delivering sustainable

communities, local authorities have the key strategic responsibility in this area. This

is particularly important for livin given its current geographical boundary within

County Durham and its relatively high levels of deprivation. Therefore the

Company’s approach of aligning key elements of its Corporate Plan 2011 – 2014 to

the priorities set out in Durham County Council’s Sustainable Communities Strategy

is vital in allowing the Company to play its role as a key partner in delivering

sustainable communities.

The provision of sustainable communities and vibrant and successful towns sits

within the key strategic theme of “Altogether Wealthier” and places a significant

emphasis on local housing markets and improvements in employability and skills as

key drivers in this achievement. Although the provision of a successful housing

market is predominantly featured in the theme of “Altogether Wealthier” there can be

cross cutting themes across the other four priority themes as demonstrated in the

Community Plans.

This theme of housing being a key driver in creating sustainable communities is

further detailed in “Building Altogether Better Lives: A Housing Strategy for County

Durham 2010-2015” (DCC, 2010). This strategy focuses on the ability for housing

and other related services to create better life chances for persons living in County

Durham by delivering better housing markets and high quality housing stock through

enhanced partnership working.

National Housing Federation

Research conducted by the National Housing Federation (NHF) found that

numerous RP’s are now using their presence and impact within their local

communities to provide services outside of their core housing management activities.

These activities are centred on employment and enterprise services, education and

skills services, wellbeing services, poverty and social inclusion, safety and

community cohesion.

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During 2006/07 the NHF found that RP’s nationally delivered 6,800 community

services (including facilities) and invested £435 million (£272 million internal and

£163 external) into resources outside of their core areas of activity. This study

highlighted the prominence that RP’s have within their local communities and their

perfect position to act as place makers in their communities.

Further information and details relating to this research is contained within the full

NHF report, “The scale and scope of housing associations activity beyond housing”.

77

APPENDIX 2

METHODOLOGY

78

livin Communities With the help of livin’s Tenants Panel 19 local communities were defined. These 19

communities are loosely based around Durham Constabulary’s local Police “Beat”

patches and the boundaries of Durham County’s local Area Action Partnerships

(AAP):

Locality Community Estates

1

Byers Green Byers Green

Kirk Merrington Kirk Merrington

Middlestone Moor Middlestone Moor

Spennymoor Town Town Centre (inc Bessemer Park) York Hill Tudhoe Tudhoe Grange

2

Dean Bank Dean Bank

Ferryhill Village and Cleves Cross Ferryhill Village Cleves Cross

West Cornforth Topside Lowside

Bishop Middleham Bishop Middleham

Chilton and Chilton Lane The Poets Windlestone

3

Trimdon Village Trimdon Village

Trimdon Grange Trimdon Grange

Trimdon Colliery Trimdon Colliery

Fishburn Fishburn

Sedgefield Sedgefield

4

Shildon Central Shildon Jubilee Fields New Shildon

Middridge Middridge

5

Aycliffe Old Town Shafto Simpasture Central

Aycliffe New Town Horndale Agnew Burnhill Western

Aycliffe Village Aycliffe Village

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Data Sources

To successfully complete each individual Plan a wide range of quantitative and

qualitative data from an extended range of sources has been utilised.

Data obtained from these sources has focused on several social, economic and

environmental indicators.

Census data has been obtained from the Lower Level Super Output Area 009A,

009B, 009D, 009E, 009F, 010A, 010B, 010C and 010D for Aycliffe New Town.

Electoral Ward data has been obtained from the Wards of West, Greenfield &

Middridge and Woodham.

Mosaic Public Sector classifies all consumers in the United Kingdom by allocating

them to one of 15 individual profile Groups. Each Group contains a number of key

characteristics and attributes which can be used by organisations to gain a detailed

and accurate understanding of consumer locations, their demographics, lifestyles

and behaviours. The utilisation of Mosaic Public Sector has enabled livin to

determine household profiles for individual communities. This profile enables livin to

understand the key characteristics of both livin tenants, and the community as a

whole, with the aim of informing the efficient and effective delivery of the identified

actions contained within each Community Plan.

Further information on Mosaic Public Sector, provided by Experian can be found at

www.publicsector.experian.co.uk.

Qualitative data collection methods has required livin to hold a number of

consultation events within each community to gain the views and opinions of local

residents; together with anecdotal data from interviews with members of staff from

livin’s Communities and Homes Support Team.

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Social, Economic and Environmental Indicators

Several social, economic and environmental indicators have been established for

each community; with some being benchmarked against County and National data

averages. The table below shows the themes and topics each Community Plan has

explored and the data sources used to populate the required intelligence.

Themes Method

Housing

Quantitative- National statistics, livin stock data, DKO lettings data, Council tax data, Durham County Council strategic housing market assessment, House price websites and Land Registry data

Qualitative – Interviews and consultation events

Crime Rates and Perception of Crime

Quantitative – Durham Constabulary crime data and livin internal data, Mosaic profile data

Qualitative – Interviews and consultation events

Economy and Employment

Quantitative - National statistics and DWP Benefit data

Qualitative – Interviews and consultation events

Accessibility to Services and Facilities

Quantitative – Mosaic profile data

Qualitative – Interviews and consultation events

Health and Well Being

Quantitative - National Statistics, Mosaic profile data

Qualitative – Interviews and consultation events

Education and Training

Quantitative - National Statistics, Mosaic profile data

Qualitative – Interviews and consultation events

Reputation and Community Cohesion

Qualitative – Interviews and consultation events

Local Environment (including built environment, management of public areas)

Qualitative – Interviews, consultation events and environmental assessments

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Community Views and Opinions

The community in Newton Aycliffe were invited to tell livin their views, concerns and opinions about their local community. There

was 13 consultation events took place during November and December 2011. The locations for the events were; Town Centre,

Leisure Centre, Pease Way Surgery, Pioneering Care Centre, Silverdale House, Youth Centre and four PACT meetings held within

Newton Aycliffe. Anecdotal evidence to support the intelligence contained in this plan has also been obtained from the Police Beat

Team for Newton Aycliffe and livin staff members.

The table below highlights the main concerns and areas for improvement highlighted during livin’s public consultation events:

Themes Community Comments

Housing

Roofing needs work on the houses around Guthrum Place

There is a lot of over parking around the housing areas

Happy overall, the house is nice and the general area is a nice place to live. Rooms are of a decent size for the family. No Complaints.

Repairs are done quickly and to a high standard, garden is a decent size (Stephenson Way)

I live in a bungalow at Oakfield and I would like it to be bigger

Shortage of nice houses, more needed

Some tenants don’t deserve the nice houses they get, they cause trouble and should be moved to somewhere that more suits them

Issues with the elderly, refused stair lifts in houses, more disabled access to housing

Good housing, much better now than when the council had houses. Nice to see modern areas and home improvements.

Like where we live in Newton Aycliffe, some other areas have ASB

Tenancy checks for new incoming tenants

Manage tenancies better

Concerns raised about properties standing void for long periods of time

Good area to live, good neighbours

Call queuing to livin a problem

Still waiting for roof repairs since February, requires scaffolding

Some areas nice, though some areas are scruffy

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Housing

Housing big enough

Housing for elderly could be improved

Like my bungalow, good size

Reported repairs recently and got good service

There is a really big problem with neighbours, they complain and cause me so much trouble, and I really just want to get on with my neighbours.

There are some neighbours who do not care for their homes or gardens and his makes the area look very untidy.

livin tenant, size ok of my house

Nice area where I live

Bungalows are big enough for two

No refurbishments have been done to my area.

Need for bigger bungalows in the area.

Elmfield School area is unused; perhaps this could be used for more housing or for a community centre for the local people?

Applying for housing has become quite difficult with the new initiatives; the application process should be simpler and quicker to keep people in social housing.

livin could help people onto the housing market by regenerating old houses, and empty properties for rent or sale.

I have no chance of buying my own home, it’s just too expensive, and there is definitely a need for more affordable housing.

People park on the grass verges too much

Housing could be improved in the town

Housing is alright in the area, when work is done there is generally no mess left either

Private Landlords!!!- Their premises need improving, and more regulation on tenant. Anyone is allowed to move in and this disturbs residents and local communities.

I love my bungalow, the service is always brilliant when repairs are made etc.

Lighting in the stairway of these flats are not well lit, I'm sure it’s not legal (Gilpin Court)

People should take better care of their houses, but generally the houses are ok, tidy and clean looking.

Well looked after, the area is spoiled by private houses though.

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Housing

There is not enough housing, young couples are always looking to get a house but there just isn’t anything available for them. Get the priorities right, a 4 bed house, given to an elderly couple is not right.

Landlords need to take more control over their private lets.

It’s a nice town, built well. I have friend that live in livin houses and they are happy with the service you provide.

Modernisation needs doing ASAP, everywhere else has had it done, what about us? (Gilpin Court)

Out of date kitchens (Gilpin Court)

The place is not up to disabled standards, its badly designed (Gilpin Court)

The insulation in my loft isn't thick enough, it hasn’t been done properly (Gilpin Court)

Crime and Antisocial Behaviour

Crime isn't really a problem here

Wheel trims stolen, kids letting tires down on cars, people smashing windows and drinking on the streets

There is no ASB now, it used to be bad but it's much more quiet now

Good Police team that comes round to patrol the area

Graffiti around the town is a disgrace, it makes everything look horrible and scruffy

Stones get thrown at the windows now and again, people breaking fence panels along the main road

Chip boxes, and litter left along the main road (Stephenson Way) and it takes ages for anyone to clean it or tidy it away

Thugs in the town and around Tesco can intimidate people, rude children hanging around the town can make you not want to leave your house

Cars get used as goal posts, we need a beat bobby

I used to get abuse from my ex-partner, and any time I did the police were quick to respond

Not enough for kids to do therefore they become active in anti-social behaviour

I don’t have a problem with this, I just feel that youngsters don’t have enough free activities to keep them busy, prisoners get activities free

We could use a community officer to patrol the more effected areas, because ASB can get out of hand and be a real problem in some places

ASB is bad round here, there's a lot of trouble in the area, Horndale

Lived here 35 yrs and feel safe

Some problems of ASB, police aware

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Crime and Antisocial Behaviour

Fewston Close, arguing, ASB and vandalism

Drug abuse Scholars path

We have seen an increase in crime in some areas

The crime is worse outside of the town, it is ok around Newton Aycliffe

I have a lot of peace and quiet in my area

We obviously have bits and pieces of crime, just like other places

It’s pretty quiet where I live, I wouldn’t tolerate trouble

There is some crime and anti-social behaviour, it’s a shame how if effects the town too. I.e. Charity shops no longer have changing rooms because people use them to steal things

Parking is difficult especially by Homebase as cars park directly outside of it and when you are leaving the car park exit it is extremely difficult to see.

Crime is just like other areas

Teens do hang around at the 'heaters' behind the leisure

Normally quite quiet

There is little enforcement in the town centre, there used to be signs to say that you were not allowed to ride your bike or skate board through the town but it happens a lot I do worry as I am quite fragile and they are fast on their bikes

You do see people abusing the town centre by not abiding by the rules such as riding bikes through the town, litter etc.

People don't feel safe going to town centre at night

Illegal parking, parking on grass and in disabled bays etc.

"PCSO" ASB on the increase, misuse of drugs in local park, youth ASB has dropped

Problems with youths drinking

Only hear about it, if it's reported in local paper

Nothing appears to be done when crime is reported

Afraid to approach younger people

Lack of respect

Too much ASB

Afraid to go out in the dark

Too much youth drinking on the streets

Drugs are a major problem

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Crime and Antisocial Behaviour

Too scared to report crime as fears of reprisals

Not personally affected by ASB

Don't see any of it but hear about it

No worse than anywhere else

No problems, quite happy where I live

Pretty quiet, don't get any hassle

Generally good within Newton Aycliffe

There needs more to be done to tackle crime

Have not experienced any personally

I've had one incident where I got my car wheels stolen 2yrs ago, but had no problems since

Silverdale- there is a local drunk man, he frequently urinates in the subway just down from the shop, and this is obviously unpleasant. He has even done it when my children have been walking home from school.

I don’t have any problems personally, but I know a lot of people that do suffer the mindless crime of the youth today.

I personally don’t suffer any crime, but a lot of people in the area do. Kids gathering, drinking and taking drugs. Car windows smashed, Silverdale house windows smashed and window ledges stolen.

Support from the local police would be good, the local shops would benefit from this, a Bobby on the beat or something. Just regular monitoring.

I have good relations with the PACT team, few issues with drug exchanges but nothing major. On the whole, small issues are dealt with in the community.

People taking drugs on the streets, leaving their smack needles and other stuff littered on the floor

People's graffiti all over the town. It looks horrible and brings the appeal of the town down

Graffiti in and around the town, it looks scruffy which is why people don’t like living there

Drug taking goes on all over Aycliffe, the black estate and yellow estate are the worst places and something needs doing about them

Chavs terrorise the town and Tesco, something more needs to be done so that the town is a safer place to be

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Economy and Employment

Employment is poor in our area

Jobs are hard to come by in this town, there's nothing local.

There are no local jobs. kids need jobs to keep them off the streets

There are no jobs for the general public, a lot of youth could cause trouble because of a lack of work opportunities

Quite bad if I'm honest, feels like the town is full of charity shops

Not enough jobs, shops need to be more focused towards the town centre

There aren’t enough jobs locally, people have to leave the town to find work

employment in particular is terrible, nothing for the younger generation

Completely rubbish, it's so difficult to get jobs locally

Bad employment, there's only a small section of shops and they’re all charity shops

Bad for youngsters, less apprenticeships.

Not many full time job opportunities locally

Not a lot of right jobs for people

Short term, part time, lower paid jobs

High rate of employment and good economy in Woodham

Poor opportunities for school leavers

Not many opportunities at present

Could improve when Hitachi arrives

Poor at the moment

Hopefully Hitachi will improve things

Have to travel out of area for work

Poor. CAB useful at the PCP, but can only go in one day and the phone service is very poor

Will be good when the likes of Hitachi comes here, and more new shops

Not interested in it, we are both retired

There is a high level of unemployment in Newton Aycliffe, but we do have good schools and good Ofsted reports, its motivation after school and college that’s lacking and the jobs that’s available.

All the SureStarts in the area seem to do well in reports too.

With EMA allowance disappearing, there is less encouragement to go to college!!

There needs to be more awareness of what’s available in terms of employability skills, workshops, volunteering etc.

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Economy and Employment

Even if jobs were handed out in Aycliffe, a lot of people wouldn’t take them; they earn more, or around the same sat at home not working.

Business is good (in local Red house shop) if you put in the time and effort there are jobs out there for people, people get too lazy and don’t bother looking though.

There is a lack of employment

Foreign workers are getting jobs in the area more than us who live here

The town centre needs changing

No jobs around the town

The town centre is adequate for those who don’t like to travel further afield, the shops here suit us

Terrible jobs in the area, we need facilities to create new jobs

The town centre is poor it really needs uplifting to increase moral on the town

Access to Services and Facilities

We have seen a reduction in buses services especially in and around the town

The bus service is very good

The bowling alley is a good facility but is in a bad location and hard to gain access to the industrial estate

Access to services is okay, the bus service is good. I go to bingo now and again.

We have good facilities in the town such as the oak leaf complex, the recreation leisure centre which I have used a lot and the boating lake is nice to visit. It used to be great when we had swan boats in summer and kids with fishing nets.

Gym membership is far too expensive, although there is plenty of youth activities

Good bus service, good town service, would be nice to get transport to bingo and other activities though

More computers for the communal area (Gilpin Court)

The town centre is terrible, it’s all charity shops and banks, we need a wider variety

I travel to and from work everyday on the bus, and the service is usually brilliant, only once or twice it's been really late or not shown up at all

Bus service is excellent, I can always get to where I want to go

More awareness of services needed

More awareness needed as to services and facilities

Access is fine however I don’t feel there is enough for youngsters

Access to shops and centres is good

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Access to Services and Facilities

PCP available and they offer a lot. Also the Oakleaf has a lot going on

Plenty of buses, we could be made more aware of police presence

Facilities just around the corner, buses are ok but some are not. The number 8 is unreliable

Happy to use the Rec & Youth centres, I've been on a few courses there but I don’t have time now

I have concerns about local bus stops being taken away

Need more shops in the town centre

Need more things for the teenagers to do in town

Fairly good apart from shops in the town centre

Good access to services - Blackton Close

Good local bus service

Good bus service and have own transport as well

Lack of parking for motor bikes

Lack of advertising for local services

Bus fares to expensive

Poor train service

Not to good, PCP is good but too far away

Used to go to groups, clubs but stopped due to help and friends passing away

The recreation Centre is good for the town, more info on what’s on generally would be good.

Bus service is poor, not running on time, or turning up, have to rely on lifts

Shouldn't have stopped the lollypop man

Used to be a lot better

Like the personal touch, not having to get on the phone, like to speak to people face to face

The SureStart building at Stephenson Way is too expensive, there is definitely a need for more affordable and accessible childcare on the town

Police need more people on the front line

Like to have a local office to speak to people about housing

Know about the local services, just don't have time to use them

Perhaps introducing a Credit Union into Newton Aycliffe would be a good idea??

Could do with better services and publications, PCP helped me to find out about stuff

Have my own car, so have good access to local services, i.e. Tesco

The wheelie bin service could be improved. We need somewhere to put our garden waste. (Silverdale)

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Access to Services and Facilities

John's Shop really could do with being improved. Customer Service is quite poor I know they don’t open when they say they do and this can be frustrating. I have also been rushed around the shop before, ten minutes before closing time.

An estate clean up would benefit a lot of us in this area as old furniture and rubbish is just left in gardens and round the estate. If something like this was to take place could we all be notified. (Silverdale)

Perhaps a Community Centre in the Elmfield area would be advantageous for the local people.

More bins for larger families would be great, if we have a large family we have to pay £20 for an extra wheelie bin, this is a lot of money for me. (Silverdale)

Bins or clear up for out garden waste could be done (Silverdale)

The local shop ‘Red House' is well used and is useful. The pizza shop however causes us more problems than enough. They really do not clear up after themselves. (Silverdale)

Bins placed outside of the shop but the pizza shop and its customers do not use them. The shop has to clear up every day. (Silverdale)

The area in and around Silverdale has improved a lot over the years, we are very grateful for this.

I use the gym, Aycliffe is adequate for gentlemen, the town could use better quality shops like a gentlemen's shop

The central council offices are too far away, they aren’t even on the outskirts of the town! No public go there.

The town toilets need to be brought back, they were helpful (although dirty) I think people miss them.

I'm aware that there are some services available on the town, but they aren't advertised well enough. A lot of people don’t know what’s going on. Some facilities need more usage.

Services are good, nice parks; I’ve seen litter pickers out which is good to see. The bus service is good, frequent. I would go to Greenfield School to learn something new, they have courses for almost everything.

There is nothing to do in Aycliffe , coffee pronto is ok

I would like to see a JJB Sports or JD Sports shop

We need goal posts in St Oswalds

More variety of shops, computer shops, gaming shops and music shops

Do something similar to Hartlepool, charge people for use of the skate park to stop scallies getting in

Boats back at the boating lake, that was fun and if it was ran properly it could be a good way to keep people occupied

90

Access to Services and Facilities

I'd like to go to a drama club, but there isn’t anything

it's good that we have a bowling alley and ice rink now, but it can be difficult to get there if you don’t drive or can’t get a lift

This town needs a cinema, it would keep people busy and attract people to the town

More clubs to get involved with, not just for young people but for older people too

It would be nice to have something like a music venue, somewhere for good bands to practice and play small concerts/gigs

The swimming pool at the leisure centre is boring, it's just a pool. Put diving boards in there or a slide, something for people to do

I and my friends play football at Greenfield Comp on the rubber pitch, it needs a roof or net to keep the ball from going over and into the woods area. A LOT of people think the same

Youth centre is good, I enjoy myself there, it's a good place to keep busy and meet friends you haven’t seen for a while

Everyone is put off going to the town because they don’t have what we want and need, too many charity shops

More activities for disabled people, I don’t think this town offers enough

We need something that is going to make people want to come here, cinema? Small concert venue?

Lack of decent shops, no one wants to come to our town to shop… because there’s nothing here

More after school groups. Drama club would be nice, the one at the youth centre is just singing

We have Silverdale house, the local Community Centre but there a people who do not like Dorothy Bowman and so many do not use the Centre for this.

We have plenty of facilities such as the library, recreation centre and youth centre.

Kids need more access to activities, a bus up to the new ice rink on the industrial estate would be brilliant

Health and Well Being

The Dr's is poor, access to the Dr's is difficult

Hard to get an appointment

Good Dr's surgeries here, happy with the access I have

Pease way doctors is clean and tidy, the staff are brilliant, appointments can sometimes be difficult to get though

Pease way doctors is run very well

There are plenty of surgeries

91

Health and Well

Being

Pease Way Surgery is much better now it has been extended and improved

more shops needed selling healthier foods, rather than just Tesco

I have to go to large stores if I want healthier foods, we need more local stores with healthier foods

Good access to the PCP

Good health generally, Bewick Crescent

I would know where to go to exercise or get advice on how to lose weight or healthy eating

Good Drs/ Dentist facilities at the PCP

Good health facilities i.e. PCP

Learning Difficulties, need more information on support available

Good access to the PCP

Bewick Crescent Surgery, brilliant

Programmes of services available, just not published enough

Gyms to expensive

No healthy food outlets

Good for Doctors

Good gym at the Leisure centre

Bewick Crescent ok, fine to get an appointment

PCP good for appointments and keep fit classes

Plenty to do, especially for the older people, i.e. . . . Classes that aren't too strenuous

Use the leisure centre for fitness

Go to the PCP for feet appointments

Fine, plenty to keep going

PCP- is available for any concerns over health etc.

There is quite a high rate in teenage pregnancies.

We only have two dentists in the area, and one travelling. We could do with more really.

More involvement from local doctors would be useful, i.e. they should participate in resident meeting

It's pretty good in Newton Aycliffe, there is the health centre and plenty of other options. However, Bewick Crescent is closed sometimes for training days (miserable reception staff too)

There are no sports shops in the town, nothing where people could buy equipment to keep fit

Pease way surgery is not good, bring back the Saturday clinic

There are lengthy waiting lists to get anything seen to

92

Education & Training

Training for adults could be improved

There isn't enough training for adults

No problems, the schools are well looked after

My daughter goes to business studies at the local learning centre which is really good

Could be more training centres

reasonable schools, they all come with goals, the Thames centre could do more within itself

Schools are good, the kids really enjoy going to Woodham

It would be nice for the elderly (or people with learning difficulties) to go on courses to help use mobile phones and computers

Group for elderly people, help with computers and mobile phones

Training courses required, practical skills i.e., plumbing, construction, electrician etc. to help people into employment

Needs something on the industrial estate for local people

Kids need good education/ not necessarily university, just skills that will help them get on

Lack of training opportunities, highlighted learning difficulties

Have good access to local training facilities

Good training within the town

Good training facilities within the town centre

Would like to do a guitar course

Courses fizzle out after the ten weeks, need continuity

No follow up when course end

No catholic school

Army Cadets

Wouldn't know what’s available or where to go

Not interested about learning new skills, but I'm aware of what’s it available

Shouldn't be going on strike

Know where the Thames centre and PCP are, would use PCP if needed to go

The schools are good, and have a good choice of schools

Use the PCP for the computers etc.

Not interested in computers or further training

Plenty of training facilities, local paper has loads of information in it too.

93

Education & Training

I used the Thames centre skills centre before and was very disappointed, no real help, I was just told to sit and get on with it when I really didn’t know what I was doing, I quit in the end.

Plenty of access to schools/colleges, bus service etc. Aware of some services available for training, e.g. Thames centre.

There is a section of residents that would like to possibly learn how to use PC's, better advertising for these kinds of things.

More comprehensive schools because there is only Greenfield and Woodham

Really good schools in the area and lots of choice

We have good schools in the town, Stephenson Way is brilliant and there is a good choice of Nurseries too.

No jobs anywhere on the town

Greenfield school in particular is fantastic, it has a lot for all age groups to do, and is run excellently

Woodham comprehensive seems to be a bit run down, it’s not attractive and could do with updating

Primary schools seem to be doing well, Stephenson Way Primary is a lovely place for the kids

Reputation and Community Cohesion

Good community spirit in the area

Town centre has quite a bad reputation, it needs improving and modernising to revitalise it and the reputation will change

The reputation of the town is ok, but renovations take too long

I love Newton Aycliffe, we have it a lot better here than some towns do.

The people here aren't bad, they are friendly and many of us get along

Aycliffe is great, I'd much rather live in Aycliffe than Chilton where I have previously lived

I have lived in Newton Aycliffe all of my life and thoroughly enjoy living here

Growing reputation

This place has a brilliant reputation and community spirit (Gilpin Court)

The reputation is so so, the attitude of the public is a problem

I think the town is terrible, and a lot of people feel the same way

Some areas have a bad reputation, such as Silverdale Place and the Dandy Cart area

Generally good, I have lived here all my life and I've had no bother, certain areas are really friendly and get along fine

Happy overall, I've lived here all my life and I rarely have any trouble

I'm happy in Newton Aycliffe, I love it here. I used to live in South Church but there is much more to do

94

Reputation and Community Cohesion

here, more shops, parks and groups, people are friendly to

Quite happy, I love living in Newton Aycliffe

Town centre lets us down

The reputation is generally good, people have a good opinion of the houses around the town but not so much about the town itself

Like the people of Newton Aycliffe

Council mentality - still named "council"

Lack of neighbourly spirit, not knowing people where you live

Maling Green - positive area - green spaces

Good friendly local spirit

Great town, let down by the powers at be

Town Centre should not have been sold off

Run down scruffy area

Lack of shops

Bird muck everywhere

Redevelopment would improve the area

No community spirit

Has a poor reputation

Horndale isn’t a bad area on the whole

WE do see a litter picker appearing on a frequent basis which is great to see

There is a good community spirit in the Horndale area.

Poor reputation, town centres the problem

Could do with more shops, better variety

Some ok, some awful, just stick to friends and family

If there was more to do, would get involved and would go

Reputation is ok, friendly people, get along with a lot of people

It's ok but could always do with more

livin name change was disgraceful

Big town but nothing in it

Delays are taking too long in the town centre improvements

Poor reputation, town centre lets us down

95

Reputation and Community Cohesion

Doesn't go out much

Everybody in Silverdale gets together in times of need.

Not very good, I have lived here a long time. The town development has taken too long and has brought peoples spirits down. Plus we have to use Tesco for everything.

A lot of residents don’t care about the area, Aycliffe needs more community spirit, and there is a major lack of interest in the town.

There is community spirit in some places, if you need something, neighbours are usually pretty helpful. No problems around the housing area, but the Pizza shops get some trouble.

Litter in the town centre makes it look awful. The people in and around the town are relatively nice. Tesco is bad.

Chavs hang around Tesco a lot, intimidating people

The town is always scruffy, and no one likes living around that area

The town centre's reputation needs help, it's not a nice place to be at all

The graffiti at the town brings down the reputation, scruffy people with nothing better to do

The town centre is a huge issue. Landlords are not local, their rates are too high and we have nothing nice in the town!!!!!!!!!

There is a lot of separation across the town between generations, classes, streets/localities but generally people get along and there is a spirit.

Environment

Town no kept clean, bushes not kept tidy, grass cutting is a disgrace

Grass cutting not done on a regular basis, looks messy

Hedges and grass areas not looked after, we just want to live in a clean environment

Recycling bins instead of Bags, bags aren't convenient for the elderly

Any spare wood left over from tree cuttings on other things could be used to build flower beds to make the areas look nicer

The area around the houses are fairly tidy, graffiti in and around the town makes it look scruffy, lots of litter which doesn’t seem to get cleaned on a regular basis

No problems, generally kept tidy (Oakfield)

The environment is nice, no problems really

Quite happy with the local environment

Gardens and grassed areas are generally kept in good condition which keeps the estate looking nice

Flats to the left of woodham way have green stains on the exterior panelling, can it be cleaned or

96

Environment

painted to improve the appearance of the place

The town does need improving not only in terms of buildings but also planters and colour injecting, pigeon poo clearing up and making the town a much nicer place to visit.

We have a lovely environment such as the nature park and the boating lake

The environment could be better, we do have some hooligans who ruin things, police do walk around and try to protect what we have.

The town itself looks very old but the xmas decorations are very nice

There is a lot of pigeon muck outside of the Heron freezer shop

Walking around is ok, the town is a dump, the whole place is an eyesore

I do notice the flowerbeds and the roundabouts, it’s nice to see things looking nice.

It's a nice area, although the town is a let down

Relatively good looking town, good xmas lights, garden competitions etc.

Roundabouts look nice, they seem to be doing a lot of work on them and they make the town look nice

Parking at the schools can cause problems!!! All across town.

The garden is a disgrace, it would take a lot of time and effort to make it nice again, time and effort we don’t have

Town centre lets area down

Weeds are a big problem, they are everywhere. They come through the paving slabs and through the decorative stones on the roundabouts. There are lots of weeds on the pavements too.

Need more shops and a clean up of the area

Rest of town good

Green spaces

Agnew area quite good

Hawkeshead Place (near Southern club) needs to be demolished to improve the environment

Like living in Newton Aycliffe

Lots of green spaces

Dog fouling, St Francis and Horndale

Woodham, nice environment/ area

Guthrum Place, untidy gardens/ fly tipping

Pleasant green spaces

Make a good effort to keep the area pleasing, with the planting of flower beds

97

Environment

Areas need to be cleaned up (blue bridge area)

Parking on paths and blocking Disabled access

Very drab, make some attempts with flower beds, but not enough

Are making improvements, but youths steel plants

Silverdale needs more positivity and colour.

The area around Silverdale is not very nice, it’s quite dull and lacks colour. We could do with more colourful building, flowers, signs or structure something to brighten the area.

Not a nice environment

Too much litter

Need more flower beds, more nice areas

Nice place to walk around

Nice green spaces and flower beds

Roads, paths etc. all good

Could do with more shops, better variety

Flower beds and green spaces are nice

Some areas are not good

Flower beds are a waste of money, flowers don't last long, do something else instead of flowers, they go out of season

The roundabouts look nice with the stones on

Some areas of the town are nice, become more aware of different areas

Areas are beautiful and clean

Litter is a bit of an issue, particularly in the town centre and park area. It would be nice to see the boating lake brought back to the wonderful place it used to be.

Most gardens are very nice, residents do make an effort, the flowerbeds

We used to have great shops in this town, but now it’s not the same, I need size 2 shoes and used to be able to get them here but not now.

Eskdale place is classed as a "Hood" so insurance is hard to obtain. Good bin service, and litter pickers too. Flower beds are nice in other places on the town but Silverdale's are and eye sore

Some nice roundabouts, not much in the Silverdale area. I suppose they can’t really do anything around here with all the trouble that goes on, stuff just gets ruined.

Wonderful area, the council work well. Paths are looked after, the greens get cut.

98

Environment

More street lights in parts of the town, people might not feel safe walking home in the dark

The town is always left to look scruffy, litter, smashed bottles, people's vomit etc.

More notice boards around the town, to let people know what's going on, activities and stuff

There is a lot of dark areas around Aycliffe, some aren’t safe. People who are out on a night and need to get home are scared to walk alone

The environment is reasonable, there are much better places though

The town centre is an embarrassment

Community Ranking Methodology

Based on the intelligence contained within this Community Plan livin has been able to rank the community based on; Bronze

(potential), Silver (aspiring) or Gold (performing). This will enable the identification of the communities which require more

immediate and more intensive interventions whilst ensuring there are mechanisms in place to maintain Gold standards.

The following are details of the methodology used by livin when determining the ranking for each community indicator:

Indicator Ranking

Housing

Market

Affordability

Affordability ratios have been devised by comparing income to house prices in order to calculate how many times their average income an individual would be required to borrow to purchase their own property. It is particularly interesting to assess how well lower income households can access the housing market. To gauge access to entry level housing the data used is the lower quartile income of residents within the former area of Sedgefield Borough and the average price of terraced housing within the community (the assumption is that this house type is often the lower quartile house type). Data sources for this information were the Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings (ASHE) 2010 and land registry house price data. To assess the level of affordability it is important to rank the multiplier by the England average. In England during 2009 the lower quartile house price was 6.28 times the lower quartile full-time individual earnings (http://www.communities.gov.uk/publications/corporate/statistics/housingplanningstatistics2010).

Gold = Multiplier of 0 to 3.5 is affordable Silver = Multiplier of 3.6 to 6.3 Bronze = Multiplier of 6.4 and above

99

Access to lending on homes is still calculated using a multiplier of 3.5 for single households and 2.9 for dual income households, therefore a multiplier of 3.5 or less can be deemed as affordable.

Tenancy

Turnover

Tenancy Turnover is determined by the percentage of houses available to let compared with the total housing stock in a community. It is recognised that this methodology is very simplistic and there are several factors that should be considered in conjunction with this ranking. These include:

Turnover rates in specific house types are generally higher than others (one bedroom bungalows) so consideration must be given to the total community stock profile

Gold communities will have a lower tenancy turnover; however a Gold ranking could indicate lack of access to housing and affordability issues requiring more households to have a housing need for socially rented properties in a particular community It is important that when considering tenancy turnover; further investigation be given to the circumstances surrounding the ranking and circumstances that may have contributed towards a high level of turnover. Further investigation should also be made into stock types within the community and the accessibility and affordability of housing. To compile the percentage rates used to calculate this ranking consideration has been given to HouseMark’s national Benchmarking figures

Gold = 5% turnover or less Silver = 8-9% turnover Bronze = 10% turnover or more

Demand for

livin housing

Demand for livin properties has been determined by the comparison of three indicators of demand taken from Durham Key Options (DKO) data. Each of these indicators has been scored accordingly with the overall score of all three determining the ranking allocated to the community:

Hard to let properties in a community: This is defined as properties that have been advertised in three or more bidding cycles with DKO before being let. It is important to note that the presence of low demand house types within a community can increase the percentage of hard to let properties within a community. - No properties hard to let = 5 points - 1 to 2% of properties hard to let = 3 points - 3% or more properties hard to let = 1 point

Gold = 11 to 15 points Silver = 6 to 10 points Bronze = 1 to 5 points

100

Area of preference: Upon application households can choose their areas of choice. These indicate a “perception” of an area therefore producing a demand. Areas of preference between communities have been determined by analysing the number of applicants showing a preference for each community compared to the amount of applicants received by livin (by percentage). Applicants can indicate a preference for more than one area and it must be noted that area of preference is made at point of first application to DKO and is a snapshot in time. Often applicants do not update their areas of preference and these areas of preference may differ from their original indications during time spent on the housing register. - 50% or more applicants expressing the community as an area of preference = 5 points - 21 to 49% of applicants expressing the community as an area of preference = 3 points - 0 to 20% of applicants expressing the community as an area of preference = 1 point

Average (mean) bids per property by community: Demand is evident by the volume of bids received for a property. It is noted that this method will disguise some house types or localised areas where the bids per property are very low and in some areas where there are exceptional number of bids per property. - 20 bids or more = 5 points - 10-19 bids = 3 points - 9 bids or less = 1 point

These three indicators considered together give livin a fair indication of demand for livin’s communities. However, anecdotal evidence from staff has uncovered that this methodology may disguise the actual experience of demand in livin communities by using a general mean average over all house types and sizes. This ranking together with the analysis does indicate areas of further in depth analysis.

Average

Repair Costs

Per Property

This has been calculated by analysing the total repair costs for livin properties within each of the 19 communities for the period 01 April 2009 to 31 March 2010. To calculate the average repair cost per property the total cost of all repairs for all livin properties in the community has been divided against the total number of stock livin owns within the community.

Gold = £599 or less Silver = £600 to £650 Bronze = £600 or more

101

Long Term Unemployment

(6 to 12 months)

This ranking is based on data supplied by the DWP in March 2011 and relates to the percentage of persons residing in the Wards of Greenfield and Middridge, Woodham Village and West who were claiming Jobseekers Allowance for a period of 6 to 12 months. This data has been compared to the overall percentage for Durham County of 18%. Data was obtained from the NOMIS Official Labour Market Statistics supplied by the Office for National Statistics.

Gold = 17% or less (lower than the County percentage) Silver = 18% (equivalent to the County percentage) Bronze = 19% or more (higher than the County percentage)

Average

Household

Income

This ranking is based on national statistics and relates to model-based average weekly household total income estimates for households in the Wards of Greenfield and Middridge, Woodham Village and West for 2001/02. This data has been compared to the North East average weekly household total income estimate of £410.00. Data was obtained from the Office for National Statistics.

Gold = £411.00 or more Silver = £410.00 Bronze = £409.99 or less

102

livin Rental

Debit

To assess the rent payments made by tenants within livin properties in Aycliffe New Town an analysis and comparison of livin’s rental debit figures for 2009/10 to 2010/11 were utilised.

The total rental debit charge is the total rent charged for all livin properties within Aycliffe New Town throughout a financial year. At the end of the financial year the total amount of rent payments collected by livin is offset against the total rental debit. The total amount of rent payments collected by livin is calculated within the first week of the following financial year; this ensures that any housing benefit payments have been processed and credited to the relevant rent account. All housing benefit payments paid by DCC are received every 4 weeks and are paid in arrears. By offsetting the amount of rent paid throughout the year against the total rental debit charge for the year livin are able to calculate how much outstanding debt it has within each individual community. This outstanding debt is commonly referred to as “rent arrears”. This figure is then calculated as a percentage of the total rental debit charge and has been used to provide the community’s ranking. livin has not been able to base the ranking of rental debit against any validated local benchmarking figures.

Gold = 0 to 0.99% Silver = 1.00% to 1.99% Bronze = over 2.00%.

Educational Attainment (5 GCSE’s Grade C &

Above)

This ranking is based on national statistics from the 2001 Census data and relates to the percentage of persons residing in the community of Aycliffe New Town that have an educational attainment of 5 GCSE’s Grade C and above. This data has been compared and ranked against the County and North East averages of 18%. Data obtained from the Office for National Statistics at www.statisics.co.uk

Gold = 19% or more Silver = 18% Bronze = 17% or less

103

Environmental

Assessment

On 11 January 2012, staff from livin’s Communities Teams conducted an Environmental Assessment on a pre-determined route through the community. At each of the “stopping points” a number of economic indicators were scored. The maximum number of points that can be awarded at each stopping point is 35. Environmental indicators include:

Grassed areas & shrubs

Fly tipping & litter

Garages

Pathways, roads & parking

Trees

Boundary walls & fences

Gardens

The route through the community began at Foxton Close within Woodham Village cross cutting across the community via Sid Chaplin Drive, Burnhill Way, Keld Road, Bluebell Way, Greenfield Way, Meadowfield Way and Williamfield Way. The route is mapped in Figure 1.21 within this document. The total number of points attained throughout the assessment is then divided by the number of stopping points to provide an average total for the community. The community scored a total of 135 points (135 divided by 5 = 27). Full details of the Environmental Assessments can be found at: www.livin.co.uk

Gold = 30 to 35 points

Silver = 21 to 29 points Bronze = 0 to 20 points

104

Total Score for Aycliffe New Town This score is based on a range of economic, social, and environmental indicators contained within the Community Plan for Aycliffe New Town. These issues have been scored against strategic priorities from livin’s Corporate Plan 2012-2015. The maximum a community can score is 36. This is based on a maximum of 15 points for economic issues, 12 points for social issues and 9 points for environmental issues.

Contact Us: livin, Farrell House, Arlington Way, DurhamGate, Spennymoor, Co Durham, DL16 6NL visit: livin.co.uk e: contactus@livin.co.uk t: 0800 587 4538 (free from a landline) or 0300 111 2344 (cheap rate from mobiles depending on your network

0

5

10

15

Economic Social Environmental

20

Substantial

issues

Prominent

issues

Low level

issues