Visual journalist Charles Apple, who, as far as we know, was one of the first to report extensively on Tribune’s ill-considered plans to consolidate much of its editing and page design in Chicago, has blogged on the Courant’s effort to poll its readers on a new Page 1 format.

Charles doesn’t offer an opinion, but several of his readers, who presumably have a healthy and well-informed interest in graphic design, do. And they weigh in not just on the banners, but on the look of the entire pages. A common concern of those who have posted so far is that the prototypes are burdened by unneccesary color.

Charles also offers a few words from Courant Design Director Melanie Shaffer. Melanie said “a leadership change at The Courant … prompted some frank discussions about what our readership was saying and our new look.”

It’s all here.