MEMBERS of the public in the Dartford area are to be offered the opportunity to tell councillors what they think about planning applications.

The borough council has revealed it is to introduce the chance for people to speak on planning applications in February as part of its efforts to improve public participation in the decision-making process.

It will be the first time public speaking has been allowed at Development Control Board meetings. People who have written to the council about a planning application will be able to explain their comments in person before councillors decide the application.

The new system will be introduced at the Development Control Board meeting on February 6 and will be reviewed after six months operation.