PLANNING applications are set to be made available online to speed up the process and make it easier for residents and councillors to add their comments.

A review group from Darlington Borough Council has worked for more than a year to draw up a list of improvements to the planning process.

A key addition to the system would be setting up an online system. It would include plans available via the council's website, which would allow people to add comments, as well as a more complete archive of previous applications.

Coun Stella Robson, in charge of the review group, told the councils cabinet meeting: "We want to be able to improve our performance and turnaround with the electronic document management system."

Other matters which the review group have recommended are:

- more delegated powers given to council officers

- compulsory training be given to members of the planning committee, with refresher and one-to-one sessions also organised

- specialist advise given on subjects such as wind farms and listed buildings when appropriate

- customer services staff be given training but also more methods examined to allow the public to obtain planning information

- the review group continue to oversee the planning process

Another suggestion was added for councillors to be trained with the new online system.

Council leader John Williams said: "Planning members should be fully trained and we owe that to the people of Darlington."