SPECIAL debates and question sessions could be held as part of a drive to dispel public apathy towards local government in County Durham.

Durham County Council is looking at ways of attracting more interest in its work.

Despite the Government's local government modernisation programme, which led to the new cabinet system being adopted by councils across the country, turnout at elections is falling and people rarely exercise their right to attend council meetings.

The Labour-run authority is looking at ways of encouraging people to take an interest by revamping the format of the three ordinary or full council meetings it holds each year.

It has introduced presentations of revamped mining banners and awards to local young athletes and talks about aspects of the council's work.

Now it plans to hold "state of the county'' debates about particular aspects of the council's work, and sessions when people can ask questions.

Questions will have to be submitted in writing beforehand.

Ordinary meetings are held in February, August and November, and are the only formal gatherings of the entire council. Most day-to-day work is done in cabinet or committee.

Veteran Labour councillor Bob Pendlebury said the council spent enormous amounts on providing services yet most people had little idea of what the authority actually did.

Suggestions such as broadcasting debates on the Internet, holding meetings at night and different locations were also suggested, along with providing transport for people to attend meetings