Public allowed to ask questions

The move was approved by cabinet this week in a bid to be more transparent.

Previously, residents had to wait until full council meetings – held five times a year – to put questions to cabinet members.

But now people will be allowed to ask questions in cabinet meetings, which are held every three weeks, before decisions are made.

Council Leader Cllr Anne Western said: “We want residents to feel they have a voice within the council and this move allows them to take part in meetings and have a two-way conversation with us.”

It is anticipated the public part of the meeting will last for around 20 minutes. People who wish to ask a question do not have to give advance notice but will be encouraged to let the council know which agenda item it relates to by noon the previous day.

People who wish to let the council know they would like to ask a question in Cabinet can email [email protected] or call 01629 538327.