TIME is running out for people who want their say in how they should be consulted over planning issues.

Individuals and groups with interests in the planning process are being urged by Wyre Forest District Council to respond to the consultation initiative by next month's deadline.

The council has published an updated version of its Statement of Community Involvement, which explains what sorts of issues the authority would consult about and how it would do it.

Particular attention is paid to community involvement in the preparation of local development documents and consultation on planning applications. The statement will be examined by a Government planning inspector.

The council's cabinet member for the environment and regeneration, councillor James Dudley, said: "Planning issues always generate a lot of interest.

"We recently held roadshows on the proposed redevelopment brief for Bridge Street and the Canal Basin in Stourport, which many people attended, highlighting just how interested people are in planning.

"We now need to know what people think about the ways we will involve them in the future."

Copies of the statement can be viewed at district libraries and the council's Duke House offices in Clensmore Street, Kidderminster and at the Civic Centre, Stourport.

The document can also be downloaded from the council's website, www.wyreforestdc.gov.uk

Meanwhile, anyone seeking planning permission from the district council can now do so through the internet.

The online system has been provided by a partnership of the council and the Government's National Planning Portal website. It is for residents, businesses and planning professionals, as well as local authorities and central Government.

In addition to providing a new way to submit plans, it will enable residents to view planning application details online and track the progress of applications.

It also provides a guide to how the planning system works and information on the appeals process.

Mr Dudley said: "The planning portal is a great way of making planning applications even more accessible and adds to the services we already have online.

"People will be able to see all the details of applications and have their say on developments in the district via the internet.

"This brings local government closer to people and will save time and travel expense."

The planning portal can be accessed through the council's website.