Giving your views

The appellant will usually give their views on a topic first, followed by the local planning authority (LPA), and then anyone else who wants to comment. This is your chance to comment.

Although hearings are informal, they must be orderly if everyone involved is to have a fair hearing. So, you must make your comments and questions to the Inspector. The Inspector will not allow any interruptions or bad behaviour.

In most cases, the Inspector will suggest that the hearing is continued on the site of the proposed development. This will only happen if everyone taking part in the hearing (or their representatives) can attend, and they don’t object to the arrangement. Most hearings end after any discussion at the appeal site. After the hearing the Inspector writes the decision or sends a report to the Secretary of State.