The public can now raise concerns and questions at Portland Town Council meetings regardless of whether it's on the agenda or not.

Portland Town Council has decided to change its 'standing orders' - essentially the council's written rules for meetings - so that members of the public can use the public half hour near the start of the meeting to raise any issue or question relating to the parish.

Previously, this time was only to be used for items on the agenda.

Cllr Sheila Miles said: "We would like the public to have greater access to talk to us about what they want to talk about.

"They may not get an answer on the day, but we will hear it and get back to them."

"It was something we (independent councillors) wanted to do to make the council more accessible for the residents of Portland."

Residents may also submit a question or provide representation for a meeting which if they are not able to attend and time permits, will be read out at the meeting.

The decision was made at the full council meeting on Wednesday, September 18. The proposal was approved unanimously.