WYRE Forest residents, businesses and community groups have until the end of July to share their views on helping shape future planning processes.

Worcestershire County Council is giving them the opportunity to have their say on two key documents that will set out how the public can engage in future decisions and help applicants reduce potential delays when making applications.

The Draft Statement of Community Involvement Update (SCI) and Planning Validation documents can be viewed at worcestershire.gov.uk/planningconsultation. Comments can be left until Wednesday, July 30 through the dedicated web section on the county council website.

The SCI is aiming to involve more people and groups in the planning process by setting out how everyone has a chance to be informed, get involved and be consulted in the most appropriate ways.

Its purpose is to create opportunities for anyone interested - individuals or groups - to have a stake in decisions on minerals, waste and county planning matters within Worcestershire.

All development plan documents prepared and planning applications determined by the county council have to comply with the consultation arrangements set out in the document.

The Validation Document is being put together to help applicants through the process offering detailed information on the documents required to submit a successful planning application. It is intended to help make things simpler for those looking to apply but also allow the county council to accept and validate applications more efficiently, reducing delays.

Conservative councillor Simon Geraghty, county council deputy leader and cabinet member for economy, skills and infrastructure, said: "We want to engage with as many individuals, groups and businesses and make things as easy as possible for people to get involved.

"I'd like to encourage anyone interested to take a look at the draft documents on worcestershire.gov.ukplanningconsultation and then share their views until July 30."

For anyone not able to access the documents online paper copies can be viewed at County Hall, Worcester. Comments on the SCI can be emailed through to sp@worcestershire.gov.uk and via validdoc@worcestershire.gov.uk for the Draft Planning Validation Document.