A major project to transform a neglected coastline into an area rich in wildlife has won an environmental award for its work.

The Seaham Regeneration Scheme, in County Durham, has been awarded first prize in the Green Apple Environmental Awards for its work to reclaim industrial land and regenerate a run-down coastline.

As part of the wider �10m Turning the Tide project, industrial land previously used as gas, chemical and bottleworks has been improved and Seaham Harbour Dock Company relocated.

The eventual aim of the project is to have the entire County Durham coastline declared a National Nature Reserve.

Future plans

A total of 14 local companies and organisations are involved in improving the area which became neglected during more than a century of coal mining.

The partnership was established in 1997 following the closure of the coal industry.

Since then almost 100 projects have brought environmental benefits to the area.

Durham County Council, development agency One NorthEast and Defra were among the companies and organisations responsible for funding the partnership project.

Future plans include demolishing existing dock company warehouses in the town centre which will allow One NorthEast to start a comprehensive regeneration scheme.