ROSSENDALE'S councillors could soon be getting formal training on the planning system.

In 1997, The Nolan Committee reported on various aspects of local government practice and made a number of recommendations to ensure full public confidence in the planning process.

One was that all members of the council's planning authority should receive training in the planning system, either before joining the committee, or as soon as possible after their appointment.

John Cowpe, borough engineering and planning officer, said: "I do feel that it is both desirable and valuable if the community at large are to continue to have confidence in the service we provide, for members of the planning committee to undergo training, just as professional officers are required to keep their knowledge and skills 'up to the mark' via the process of continuing professional development."

Mr Cunliffe is planning to look into the cost of relevant training courses with a view to them starting later in the year.

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