PUBLIC speaking is the way forward.

That's the belief of council chiefs who say the voice of the people is well heard and will continue to be in Chorley - in Local Democracy Week which began on Monday.

A variety of schemes and initiatives have been taking place, with Chorley people playing a key role.

From the complexities of the borough's strategic and local plans through to the ideas behind the sports development strategy, the renewal of children's play facilities and the introduction of new public art into Chorley town centre - the council says it wants to hear what people would like.

Council leader John Wilson said: "Local Democracy Week is all about encouraging public participation in local government and I am happy to say there is plenty of that going on in Chorley.

"Whatever we as a council attempt to do, our aim is to involve local people in the decision making process and that covers all walks of life and all ages.

"As far as Chorley is concerned Local Democracy will go on - 52 weeks of the year."

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