Consultations

Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council consults residents about a variety of issues using different methods. We consult because residents have a democratic right to have their say and because it makes good business sense to know what customers want.

Residents are invited to:

• Comment on documents ranging from strategic plans to planning applications
• Participate in surveys such as those published in the council’s newspaper, the shuttle
• Participate in public meetings or group discussions
• Contact councillors or council officers
• Write to the Shuttle or any of the neighbourhood newsletters

The Council conducts research into residents’ opinion which is designed to be statistically valid. Although residents can’t volunteer to participate, they have a fair chance of being randomly selected and invited to complete a survey or be interviewed. These include:

• The Council’s Citizens Panel, which is consulted over the phone
• Ad hoc surveys such as household and lifestyle surveys

The results of research and consultation are reported to members of the council and senior managers. They are considered along with other factors such as cost and feasibility when making a decision.