DURHAM City Council is urging people throughout the city to take part in consultative groups it is setting up.

The Labour-run authority is launching four area forums as part of the new decision-making structure - including a new cabinet-style system - it is introducing.

The council hopes the quarterly forums will give people and organisations the chance to raise views and issues.

It will allow the council to explain its plans, policies and decisions. The forums will have no decision-making power.

The council is looking for people from all walks of life to get involved - including pensioners, youngsters, the disabled and ethnic minorities.

Invitations are also going to Durham County Council, the police and parish councils.

John Bowman, the council cabinet member responsible for public consultation, said: "By setting up area forums, local people will be empowered to play a full role within their communities and influence the decision-making processes."

Proposals for the forums are likely to be discussed by the full council in November.

If approved, the first will be held soon after. The council plans to monitor them to see if improvements are needed.

The Liberal Democrat opposition on the council accused Labour of "gerrymandering", claiming it lumped wards together to ensure a majority of councillors on each forum. Labour rejected the claim.

The council says it is "leading the way" by having opposition councillors on its scrutiny committee, which examines decisions and looks into particular issues.

Committee chairman Ed Ramsay said having opposition councillors on it underlined its "independent approach.

"Major issues are dealt with efficiently with all-party co-operation. Durham City Council is anticipating the way ahead for such committees and I am delighted our approach has found such support within the council.