The Coast
Durham's coastal environment was devastated by the industrial use of the coastal zone through the mining industry throughout the 20th Century. Wildlife and habitat suffered heavily, discouraging visitors and leaving the local communities with little sense of pride in their unique environment. Much of the coast became derelict and misuse of the area in the form of vandalism, vehicle abandonment and illegal tipping became common and is still a problem in places.
The area has suffered from widespread social and economic deprivation since the closure of coal mines in the early 1990s. The coastal area is characterized by low educational attainments, few training opportunities, poor health and rates amongst the lowest 10% of wards in the region for employment. Despite this, the coastal area is a rich natural and cultural asset, important to the regions economy and well being.
The area has suffered from widespread social and economic deprivation since the closure of coal mines in the early 1990s. The coastal area is characterized by low educational attainments, few training opportunities, poor health and rates amongst the lowest 10% of wards in the region for employment. Despite this, the coastal area is a rich natural and cultural asset, important to the regions economy and well being.