RYEDALE District Council (RDC) has held its first “virtual” planning meeting.

In the usual course of events, most minor planning applications are decided by planning officers. However, all major and contentious applications are determined by planning committee members, who make a decision after considering representations from the public and other interested parties.

Since March RDC has paused in-person meetings, in line with government guidance around social distancing, and avoiding unnecessary travel.

Cllr Keane Duncan, leader of RDC, said: “It is very important that the planning system continues to run, despite the restrictions that are in place.

“By holding the meeting virtually, the committee was able to do its job, and consider planning applications, without putting the health and safety of councillors, council officers, or members of the public at risk.”