KENNET District Council is asking developers to involve the public at an earlier stage in the planning process. Major planning applications should be discussed with the public before being submitted to the planning authority, according to new guidelines.

These are defined as those with ten or more houses or where the floor space exceeds 2,000 square metres or the site area is greater than one hectare.

People who want to erect mobile phone masts and wind turbines should also seek public involvement.

The public can comment on the guidelines, called the Statement of Community Involvement, until March 22. The document is available on the council website at www.kennet.gov.uk, the council offices in Devizes and libraries.

Comments should be sent to forward planning and transportation, Kennet District Council, Browfort, Bath Road, Devizes, Wiltshire, SN10 2AT.