Explanatory note

These Rules regulate the procedure to be followed in connection with local inquiries in England or Wales caused by the Secretary of State to be held by inspectors before he determines applications referred to him, or appeals made to him, in relation to planning permission, consent under tree preservation orders, listed building consent and consent for the demolition of unlisted buildings in conservation areas (known as “conservation area consent”).

They replace the Town and Country Planning (Inquiries Procedure) Rules 1974, as amended by the Town and Country Planning (Various Inquiries) (Procedure) (Amendment) Rules 1986, which are revoked, subject to transitional provisions contained in rule 22.

The new Rules provide for a fuller exchange of information among the various interested parties about their respective cases before an inquiry opens, and introduce a more detailed timetable for the steps to be taken before an inquiry. Other new features are that they regulate pre-inquiry meetings and contain provisions relating to assessors, whom the Secretary of State may appoint to sit with and advise inspectors.

The procedural system instituted by the Rules is explained in detail in a Circular dated 16th June 1988 and prepared jointly by the Department of the Environment and the Welsh Office, number 10/88 (Department of the Environment) and 15/88 (Welsh Office). Copies may be purchased through Her Majesty’s Stationery Office.