The move would pave the way for the former Shincliffe Colliery site, which closed in 1886, to become a nature reserve.
Durham County Council’s Cabinet is due to consider a proposal on Wednesday, September 16, to delegate powers to Shincliffe Parish Council to create the reserve at the old mine site near High Shincliffe.
According to a report prepared for Shincliffe Parish Council, the four-hectare site has naturally regenerated over almost 140 years and now supports a mix of woodland, scrub, grassland and wetland habitats.
It found the former colliery has become an “open mosaic habitat” on previously developed land, which is important for conservation.
The site is also seen as a valuable green space for local residents and as a potential resource for education and community activities.
Future opportunities include volunteer conservation days, nature walks and school visits.
The report concludes that the old mine site meets the criteria for Local Nature Reserve designation because of its wildlife value, educational benefits and opportunities for public enjoyment.
If approved, the former industrial site would join a growing network of protected local nature reserves across County Durham, helping preserve an area that has been transformed from a Victorian colliery into a haven for wildlife.