PEOPLE are being urged to speak up and be heard after radical changes were made to planning committee rules.

For the first time, objectors and supporters of applications will be given the opportunity to voice their opinions at planning committees.

From now on, one objector and one supporter will be given two minutes each to put their views forward.

If there are several objectors and supporters, spokesmen should be selected to speak on behalf of them. They will then be contacted about a week before the planning application is due to be considered.

The change is part of Bolton Council's commitment to be more open and involve local people. New developments or changes of use of existing buildings can often affect local neighbourhoods and this is a new chance for local residents to have their say.

Councillor Prentice Howarth, chairman of the planning and highways committee, said: "This is a major step forward for involving the local community directly in making decisions that can affect their neighbourhood."

For more information, a leaflet is available from Democratic Services, Town Hall, Bolton, or by calling 01204 331039.