Do you have a burning issue you’d like to discuss with an elected councillor? Or a great idea for the future of our district?

From next Tuesday you can chat with a Councillor at the Ashburton Public Library, where we’ll be running weekly drop-in sessions.

The sessions will be from 2-3pm and 6-7pm, and start from Tuesday 18 April. The chats will initially be trialled for a four-month period.

Democracy and Engagement Group Manager Toni Durham said Councillors wanted to make sure they were in touch with their community.

“Some people find our submission process a bit daunting, so they don’t submit on things like Long Term Plans or consultation documents, meaning our elected members may not hear from a broad cross section in the community about the issues.

“It’s important our Councillors are accessible to residents, so having them available at informal drop-in sessions will help people to reach out and connect with them.”

Mrs Durham said different Councillors would be on duty each week.

“This is really about encouraging and engaging in a good discussion, and not a replacement for customer service requests that are best dealt with via our Snap, Send, Solve app or getting in touch with the customer services team.

“Come instead with your great ideas for the future of the district, or ask some key questions about why council made a decision on something that has affected you.”