THE New Forest National Park Authority is launching planning surgeries in Lyndhurst next month.

The authority, based at South Efford House near Lymington, became responsible for planning inside the national park boundaries when it assumed its full powers in April.

The planning surgeries will be based at The Cottage, Queen's House in Lyndhurst, from 4 July.

They will take place every Tuesday and Thursday from 9am to 1pm.

Planning staff will be available to give general planning advice and information.

To discuss a specific site proposal applicants will need to make a prior appointment with a senior planning officers.

Steve Avery, head of development control, said: "These surgeries should be of particular benefit to those residents who do not have Internet access to view applications on line and who do not wish to travel to South Efford House to inspect a planning application.

"At the same time, applicants will also be able to deposit new planning applications in the Lyndhurst office."

All planning applications can be viewed and tracked on-line at www.new forestnpa.gov.uk/planning.

Appointments for planning inquiries can be arranged by calling the New Forest National Park on 01590 646610.