The way forward for public consultation

12.10.37pm UTC (GMT +0000) Wed 3rd Sep 2008

• RESIDENTS are being invited to help the Council review its public consultation process.

A new scrutiny task group has been set up to examine how consultation is undertaken and to assess how satisfied residents are with the process and where improvements might be made. The group has been created by the Council's Coordination Finance and Performance Commission and is comprised of four Councillors and one co-opted member of the public. Its work will be completely transparent and the public are advised that meetings will be held on 3 September and 15 October. In addition, another meeting will be held (date to be confirmed), specifically to provide Richmond United the opportunity to express its views. Richmond upon Thames residents are consulted on a wide range of issues, ranging from local development, for example the creation of a new pedestrian area, to budget allocation, for example how expenditure is prioritised.

The Chair of the task group, Cllr John Coombs, said: "Public involvement is key to the democratic process and we are therefore particularly keen to ensure that Richmond residents feel that they are properly consulted on important issues. This task group will provide the opportunity to hear evidence from a range of individuals and organisations, and to look in depth at any concerns, with a view to establishing the right way forward for public consultation in Richmond."