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Sample module

Hours to complete 2.00
No of pages 10
Published February 2005
Updated February 2005
See more in Enforcement
Author Rod Baker, Planning Consultant
Relevance England flag Wales flag
Price GBP 10.00

Hearings - Good Practice

Purpose

This module considers Hearings, often referred to as ‘informal hearings’. They are one of the three ways in which appeals are ‘heard’ (that is, considered), along with inquiries and written representations.

Benefits

The importance of the appeal procedure is twofold. It is part of the apparatus whereby the First Secretary of State (the Deputy Prime Minister) and the National Assembly for Wales control the application of national planning policies in England and Wales. It also protects the interests of developers and landowners from capricious or politically motivated decisions by local planning authorities. But, more controversially, it can be said to facilitate similar decisions by inspectors and the politicians in whose shoes they stand.

Audience

Urban and regional planners and all those wishing to build and assess their knowledge of the topic.

Learning method

An action list which provides a detailed overview of the hearings process and a set of steps to take in the event of being a disappointed applicant thinking about making an appeal. Additionally a comprehensive range of further reading is provided for those who wish to become expert in the subject. Includes voluntary self assessment for recording continuous professional development (CPD).

Related RTPI Conferences

Understanding the appeals process conference
Giving evidence at inquiries – the masterclass

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