Local democracy took a backward step at the Council meeting on 23rd January 2008.   The ruling Tory councillors pushed through far reaching alterations to the Area Forums in Blackpool, despite huge opposition from the Labour councillors and more importantly the Area Forums themselves.  
This was despite consultation on these proposals was minimal and, in my view, rushed.

The new system includes a Councillor chairing the "Panels" with meetings every six months to discuss a specific item.   Floor issues have been done away with as well as the ability for other bodies, such as the Police, Fire Service, PCT and Council officers to report/consult on relevant matters. 

There will be seven Area Panels (3 wards in each) and each will be made up of the six ward Councillors,  plus three from "a balanced representation of co-opted members representative stakeholder groups in the area"  and three representatives from members of the community.  

At least now ALL councillors will have to attend a Panel meeting for the "Councillors' Question Time" - for one hour after the panel meeting  !!!!.

Time will tell how the new proposals will work out but I, for one, am not holding my breath.