THE council’s development management committee has been postponed for three months amid the coronavirus pandemic.

In an e-mail, members were told the move has been agreed as a result of the current requirements for ‘social distancing’.

Officers are currently finalising details of dealing with any urgent planning matters under emergency powers.

The committee makes decisions on planning applications in the town.

Earlier this month, council leader Cllr Russ Bowden met with the deputy leader, mayor, political group leaders, chief executive and monitoring officer to discuss the developing situation and ‘uncharted territory’ facing the Labour-run authority.

Cllr Bowden has highlighted the importance of ensuring the council continues to ‘function effectively’ in the coming months.