Later...

Well, I had my meeting and I think that democracy in Stockton might just have inched forward slightly, though very slightly. Enough said - it's too technical and in the background to worry most people.
It was good to hear that over 90% of people in the ward have returned electoral canvass forms or their electronic equivalent. If you're one of the people who hasn't yet done it, do it quickly please. You can download the form now!
This evening I went to the second half of the compulsory planning training which any councillor who wants to sit on planning committee either regularly or as an occasional substitute has to undertake. It's about making sure that we understand the rules governing planning - not about stifling debate but trying to make sure that the decisions are in accordance with policy and that they're reached in a transparent and honest way. Not always easy in the heat of the planning meeting so it's good sometimes to sit and debate at a training some of the difficulties.