TRAFFORD Council has welcomed a new law which allows the press and public to film and digitally report from all public meetings of local government bodies.

Having already opened up its council business through the live, online transmission of council proceedings, Trafford said this latest step signals a 'new era' for more open, transparent and accountable local government.

Executive councillor for Transformation and Resources, Alex Williams, said seeing this legislation passed was extremely encouraging and brings councils into the 21st century.

Cllr WIlliams said: "We know there is significant interest in local democracy and influencing decision making here in Trafford.

"As a council we are committed to making local democracy more open which is why we have opened up our council meetings.

"This latest legislation is another important step towards achieving this nationally.

"While there remains resistance among some councils, Trafford has always been at the forefront of open democracy and will continue to ensure it makes as much information available as possible, providing people with the opportunity to get closer to our democracy."

Residents wanting to tune in to Trafford Council's live online transmissions can do so at trafford.gov.uk.

Alternatively, it is possible to watch proceedings back on catch up TV.