Residents could find out about planning matters via computer in the near future.

A Castle Point planning committee meeting tomorrow will hear more details of how planning services could be delivered electronically.

A survey indicated the idea has the support of residents.

In a report, planning director Ian Burchill said: "It will be important in order to more fully engage the public and interested groups and agencies - particularly hard to reach groups - that alternatives to the traditional methods of consultation are explored and considered. The Planning Inspectorate will expect the council to make background documentation available in electronic form.

"It will also be important to make the documentation available early in the process to allow groups as much time as possible to understand the material and be fully able to participate in the process."

More use of the council's website is one option.

Published Monday, January 27, 2003

Brought to you by the Evening Echo