Town and Country Planning Act 1990

Orders made by Secretary of State E+W

247 Highways affected by development: orders by Secretary of State. E+W

(1) The Secretary of State may by order authorise the stopping up or diversion of any highway [F1 outside Greater London] if he is satisfied that it is necessary to do so in order to enable development to be carried out—

(a) in accordance with planning permission granted under Part III [F2 or section 293A] , or

(b) by a government department.

(2) Such an order may make such provision as appears to the Secretary of State to be necessary or expedient for the provision or improvement of any other highway [F3 outside Greater London].

[F4 (2A) The council of a London borough may by order authorise the stopping up or diversion of any highway within the borough, or within another London borough if the council of that borough consents, if it is satisfied that it is necessary to do so in order to enable development to be carried out—

(a) in accordance with planning permission granted under Part III [F2 or section 293A] , or

(b) by a government department.

(2B) Such an order may make such provision as appears to the council to be necessary or expedient for the provision or improvement of any other highway within the borough.]

(3) [F5 An order under subsection (1) or (2A)] may direct—

(a) that any highway provided or improved by virtue of it shall for the purposes of the M1 Highways Act 1980 be a highway maintainable at the public expense;

(b) that the Secretary of State, [F6 a strategic highways company,] or any county council, [F7 county borough council,] metropolitan district council or London borough council specified in the order or, if it is so specified, the Common Council of the City of London, shall be the highway authority for that highway;

(c) in the case of a highway for which the Secretary of State [F8 or a strategic highways company] is to be the highway authority, that the highway shall, on such date as may be specified in the order, become a trunk road within the meaning of the Highways Act 1980.

[F9 (3A) An order under subsection (2A) may not provide that—

(a) the Secretary of State,

[F10 (aa) a strategic highways company,]

(b) Transport for London, or

(c) a London borough other than the one whose council is making the order,

shall be the highway authority for a highway unless the Secretary of State, [F11 the strategic highways company,] Transport for London or the council, as the case may be, so consents.]

(4) An order made under this section may contain such incidental and consequential provisions as appear to the Secretary of State [F12 or the council of the London borough] to be necessary or expedient, including in particular—

(a) provision for authorising the Secretary of State [F12 or the council of the London borough], or requiring any other authority or person specified in the order—

(i) to pay, or to make contributions in respect of, the cost of doing any work provided for by the order or any increased expenditure to be incurred which is attributable to the doing of any such work; or

(ii) to repay, or to make contributions in respect of, any compensation paid by the highway authority in respect of restrictions imposed under section 1 or 2 of the M2 Restriction of Ribbon Development Act 1935 in relation to any highway stopped up or diverted under the order;

(b) provision for the preservation of any rights of statutory undertakers in respect of any apparatus of theirs which immediately before the date of the order is under, in, on, over, along or across the highway to which the order relates.

(5) An order may be made under this section authorising the stopping up or diversion of any highway which is temporarily stopped up or diverted under any other enactment.

(6) The provisions of this section shall have effect without prejudice to—

(a) any power conferred on the Secretary of State [F13 or a London borough] by any other enactment to authorise the stopping up or diversion of a highway;

(b) the provisions of Part VI of the M3 Acquisition of Land Act 1981; or

(c) the provisions of section 251(1).

Textual Amendments

F1 Words in s. 247(1) inserted (3.7.2000) by 1999 c. 29, s. 270, Sch. 22 para. 3(2) (with Sch. 12 para. 9(1)); S.I. 2000/801, art. 2(2)(c), Sch. 1

F2 Words in s. 247(1)(a)(2A)(a) inserted (7.6.2006) by The Planning and Compulsory Purchase Act 2004 (Commencement No. 9 and Consequential Provisions) Order 2006 (S.I. 2006/1281), art. 5(b)

F3 Words in s. 247(2) inserted (3.7.2000) by 1999 c. 29, s. 270, Sch. 22 para. 3(3) (with Sch. 12 para. 9(1)); S.I. 2000/801, art. 2(2)(c), Sch

F4 S. 247(2A)(2B) inserted (3.7.2000) by 1999 c. 29, s. 270, Sch. 22 para. 3(4) (with Sch. 12 para. 9(1)); S.I. 2000/801, art. 2(2)(c), Sch.

F5 Words in s. 247(3) substituted (3.7.2000) by 1999 c. 29, s. 270, Sch. 22 para. 3(5) (with Sch. 12 para. 9(1)); S.I. 2000/801, art. 2(2)(c), Sch.

F6 Words in s. 247(3)(b) inserted (5.3.2015) by Infrastructure Act 2015 (c. 7), s. 57(1), Sch. 1 para. 104(2)(a); S.I. 2015/481, reg. 2(a)

F7 Words in s. 247(3)(b) inserted (1.4.1996) by 1994 c. 19, s. 20(4), Sch. 6 Pt. II para. 24(9) (with ss. 54(5)(7), 55(5), Sch. 17 paras. 22(1), 23(2)); S.I. 1996/396, art. 3, Sch. 1

F8 Words in s. 247(3)(c) inserted (5.3.2015) by Infrastructure Act 2015 (c. 7), s. 57(1), Sch. 1 para. 104(2)(b); S.I. 2015/481, reg. 2(a)

F9 S. 247(3A) inserted (3.7.2000) by 1999 c. 29, s. 270, Sch. 22 para. 3(6) (with Sch. 12 para. 9(1)); S.I. 2000/801, art. 2(2)(c), Sch.

F10 S. 247(3A)(aa) inserted (5.3.2015) by Infrastructure Act 2015 (c. 7), s. 57(1), Sch. 1 para. 104(3)(a); S.I. 2015/481, reg. 2(a)

F11 Words in s. 247(3A) inserted (5.3.2015) by Infrastructure Act 2015 (c. 7), s. 57(1), Sch. 1 para. 104(3)(b); S.I. 2015/481, reg. 2(a)

F12 Words in s. 247(4) inserted (3.7.2000) by 1999 c. 29, s. 270, Sch. 22 para. 3(7) (with Sch. 12 para. 9(1)); S.I. 2000/801, art. 2(2)(c), Sch.

F13 Words in s. 247(6)(a) inserted (3.7.2000) by 1999 c. 29, s. 270, Sch. 22 para. 3(8) (with Sch. 12 para. 9(1)); S.I. 2000/801, art. 2(2)(c), Sch.

Marginal Citations

M1 1980 c. 66.

M2 1935 c. 67.

M3 1981 c. 67.

248 Highways crossing or entering route of proposed new highway, etc. E+W

(1) This section applies where—

(a) planning permission is granted under Part III for constructing or improving, or the Secretary of State [F14 or a strategic highways company] proposes to construct or improve, a highway (“the main highway”); and

(b) another highway crosses or enters the route of the main highway or is, or will be, otherwise affected by the construction or improvement of the main highway.

(2) Where this section applies [F15 and the place where the other highway crosses or enters the route of the main highway or is otherwise affected is outside Greater London], if it appears to the Secretary of State expedient to do so—

(a) in the interests of the safety of users of the main highway; or

(b) to facilitate the movement of traffic on the main highway,

he may by order authorise the stopping up or diversion of the other highway.

[F16 (2A) Where this section applies and the place where the other highway crosses or enters the route of the main highway or is otherwise affected is within a London borough, if it appears to the council of that borough expedient to do so—

(a) in the interests of the safety of users of the main highway; or

(b) to facilitate the movement of traffic on the main highway,

it may by order authorise the stopping up or diversion of the other highway.]

(3) Subsections (2) [F17 and (2B)] to (6) of section 247 shall apply to an order under this section as they apply to an order under that section, taking the reference in [F18 subsections (2) and (2B)] of that section to any other highway as a reference to any highway other than that which is stopped up or diverted under this section and the references in subsection (3) to a highway provided or improved by virtue of an order under that section as including a reference to the main highway.

Textual Amendments

F14 Words in s. 248(1)(a) inserted (5.3.2015) by Infrastructure Act 2015 (c. 7), s. 57(1), Sch. 1 para. 105; S.I. 2015/481, reg. 2(a)

F15 Words in s. 248(2) inserted (3.7.2000) by 1999 c. 29, s. 270, Sch. 22 para. 4(2) (with Sch. 12 para. 9(1)); S.I. 2000/801, art. 2(2)(c), Sch.

F16 S. 248(2A) inserted (3.7.2000) by 1999 c. 29, s. 270, Sch. 22 para. 4(3) (with Sch. 12 para. 9(1));S.I.2000/801, art. 2(2)(c), Sch.

F17 Words in s. 248(3) inserted (3.7.2000) by 1999 c. 29, s. 270, Sch. 22 para. 4(4)(a) (with Sch. 12 para. 9(1)); S.I. 2000/801, art. 2(2)(c), Sch.

F18 Words in s. 248(3) substituted (3.7.2000) by 1999 c. 29, s. 270, Sch. 22 para. 4(4)(b) (with Sch. 12 para. 9(1)); S.I. 2000/801, art. 2(2)(c), Sch.

249 Order extinguishing right to use vehicles on highway. E+W

(1) This section applies where—

(a) a local planning authority by resolution adopt a proposal for improving the amenity of part of their area, and

(b) the proposal involves the public ceasing to have any right of way with vehicles over a highway in that area, being a highway which is neither a trunk road [F19 , a GLA road] nor a road classified as a principal road.

(2) [F20 Where the public is to cease to have such a right of way at a place outside Greater London,] the Secretary of State may, on an application by a local planning authority who have so resolved, by order provide for the extinguishment of any right which persons may have to use vehicles on that highway.

[F21 (2A) Where—

(a) the public is to cease to have such a right of way at a place within a London borough, and

(b) the conditions mentioned in subsection (2B)(a) or (b) are satisfied,

the council of that borough may by order provide for the extinguishment of any right which persons may have to use vehicles on that highway.

(2B) The conditions are that—

(a) the council is a local planning authority for the place where the right of way is to cease and it resolves that the right should be extinguished, or

(b) another authority is a local planning authority for that place and, having resolved to do so, it applies to the council of the borough for the right to be extinguished.]

(3) An order under subsection (2) [F22 or (2A)] may include such provision as the Secretary of State [F23 or, as the case may be, the council of the London borough] (after consultation with every authority who are a local planning authority for the area in question and the highway authority) thinks fit for permitting the use on the highway of vehicles (whether mechanically propelled or not) in such cases as may be specified in the order, notwithstanding the extinguishment of any such right as is mentioned in that subsection.

(4) Such provision as is mentioned in subsection (3) may be framed by reference to—

(a) particular descriptions of vehicles, or

(b) particular persons by whom, or on whose authority, vehicles may be used, or

(c) the circumstances in which, or the times at which, vehicles may be used for particular purposes.

(5) No provision contained in, or having effect under, any enactment, being a provision prohibiting or restricting the use of footpaths, footways or bridleways shall affect any use of a vehicle on a highway in relation to which an order under subsection (2) [F24 or (2A)] has effect, where the use is permitted in accordance with provisions of the order included by virtue of subsection (3).

(6) If any authority who are a local planning authority for the area in which a highway to which an order under subsection (2) [F25 or (2A)] relates is situated apply to the Secretary of State [F26 or, as the case may be, the council of the borough] in that behalf, [F27 the Secretary of State or council] may by order revoke that order, and, if [F28 the order is revoked], any right to use vehicles on the highway in relation to which the order was made which was extinguished by virtue of the order under that subsection shall be reinstated.

(7) Such an order as is mentioned in subsection (6) may make provision requiring the removal of any obstruction of a highway resulting from the exercise of powers under Part VIIA of the M4 Highways Act 1980 [F29 or sections 1 to 9 of the Business and Planning Act 2020].

(8) Before making an application under subsection (2) [F30 , (2A)] or (6) the local planning authority shall consult with the highway authority (if different) and any other authority who are a local planning authority for the area in question.

(9) Subsections (2) [F31 , (2B)], (3), (4) and (6) of section 247 shall apply to an order under this section as they apply to an order under that section.

Textual Amendments

F19 Words in s. 249(1)(b) inserted (3.7.2000) by 1999 c. 29, s. 270, Sch. 22 para. 5(2) (with Sch. 12 para. 9(1)); S.I. 2000/801, art. 2(2)(c), Sch.

F20 Words in s. 249(2) inserted (3.7.2000) by 1999 c. 29, s. 270, Sch. 22 para. 5(3) (with Sch. 12 para. 9(1)); S.I. 2000/801, art. 2(2)(c), Sch.

F21 S. 249(2A)(2B) inserted (3.7.2000) by 1999 c. 29, s. 270, Sch. 22 para. 5(4) (with Sch. 12 para. 9(1)); S.I. 2000/801, art. 2(2)(c), Sch.

F22 Words in s. 249(3) inserted (3.7.2000) by 1999 c. 29, s. 270, Sch. 22 para. 5(5)(a) (with Sch. 12 para. 9(1)); S.I. 2000/801, art. 2(2)(c), Sch.

F23 Words in s. 249(3) inserted (3.7.2000) by 1999 c. 29, s. 270, Sch. 22 para. 5(5)(b) (with Sch. 12 para. 9(1)); S.I. 2000/801, art. 2(2)(c), Sch.

F24 Words in s. 249(5) inserted (3.7.2000) by 1999 c. 29, s. 270, Sch. 22 para. 5(6) (with Sch. 12 para. 9(1)); S.I. 2000/801, art. 2(2)(c), Sch.

F25 Words in s. 249(6) inserted (3.7.2000) by 1999 c. 29, s. 270, Sch. 22 para. 5(7)(a) (with Sch. 12 para. 9(1)); S.I. 2000/801, art. 2(2)(c), Sch.

F26 Words in s. 249(6) inserted (3.7.2000) by 1999 c. 29, s. 270, Sch. 22 para. 5(7)(b) (with Sch. 12 para. 9(1)); S.I. 2000/801, art. 2(2)(c), Sch.

F27 Words in s. 249(6) inserted (3.7.2000) by 1999 c. 29, s. 270, Sch. 22 para. 5(7)(c) (with Sch. 12 para. 9(1)); S.I. 2000/801, art. 2(2)(c), Sch.

F28 Words in s. 249(6) inserted (3.7.2000) by 1999 c. 29, s. 270, Sch. 22 para. 5(7)(d) (with Sch. 12 para. 9(1)); S.I. 2000/801, art. 2(2)(c), Sch.

F29 Words in s. 249(7) inserted (temp.) (22.7.2020) by virtue of Business and Planning Act 2020 (c. 16), ss. 7(8), 25(1) (with ss. 7(4), 10)

F30 Words in s. 249(8) inserted (3.7.2000) by 1999 c. 29, s. 270, Sch. 22 para. 5(8) (with Sch. 12 para. 9(1)); S.I. 2000/801, art. 2(2)(c), Sch.

F31 Words in s. 249(9) inserted (3.7.2000) by virtue of 1999 c. 29, s. 270, Sch. 22 para. 5(9) (with Sch. 12 para. 9(1)); S.I. 2000/801, art. 2(2)(c), Sch.

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C1 S. 249: power to apply (with modifications) conferred by Local Government, Planning and Land Act 1980 (c. 65, SIF 123:1), s. 149(3)(b), Sch. 29 Pt. II para. 6 as substituted by Planning (Consequential Provisions) Act 1990 (c. 11, SIF 123:1, 2), s. 4, Sch. 2 para. 44(13)

C2 S. 249: power to modify conferred (10.11.1993) by 1993 c. 28, s. 171(3)(b); S.I. 1993/2762, art. 3

C3 S. 249 applied (with modifications) (7.6.2004) by The Milton Keynes (Urban Area and Planning Functions) Order 2004 (S.I. 2004/932), art. 5, Sch. para. 6 (with arts. 6, 7)

S. 249 applied (with modifications) (12.10.2005) by The Thurrock Development Corporation (Planning Functions) Order 2005 (S.I. 2005/2572), art. 5 (with arts. 6, 7)

S. 249 applied (with modifications) (31.10.2005) by The London Thames Gateway Development Corporation (Planning Functions) Order 2005 (S.I. 2005/2721), art. 6

S. 249 applied (with modifications) (6.4.2006) by The West Northamptonshire Development Corporation (Planning Functions) Order 2006 (S.I. 2006/616), art. 6

S. 249 applied (with modifications) (7.9.2006) by The Olympic Delivery Authority (Planning Functions) Order 2006 (S.I. 2006/2185), art. 6

C4 S. 249 applied (with modifications) (1.10.2012) by The London Legacy Development Corporation (Planning Functions) Order 2012 (S.I. 2012/2167), arts. 1, 7 (with Sch. 1, Sch. 2)

C5 S. 249 applied (with modifications) (1.4.2015) by The Old Oak and Park Royal Development Corporation (Planning Functions) Order 2015 (S.I. 2015/442), arts. 1, 7 (with Sch.)

C6 S. 249 applied (with modifications) (1.7.2015) by The Ebbsfleet Development Corporation (Planning Functions) Order 2015 (S.I. 2015/748), arts. 1, 5 (with Sch.)

Marginal Citations

M4 1980 c. 66.

250 Compensation for orders under s. 249. E+W

(1) Any person who, at the time of an order under section 249(2) [F32 , (2B)] coming into force, has an interest in land having lawful access to a highway to which the order relates shall be entitled to be compensated by the local planning authority on whose application the order was made in respect of—

(a) any depreciation in the value of his interest which is directly attributable to the order; and

(b) any other loss or damage which is so attributable.

F33 (2) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(3) A claim for compensation under this section shall be made to the local planning authority on whose application the order was made within the prescribed time and in the prescribed manner.

(4) For the purpose of assessing any such compensation the rules set out in section 5 of the M5 Land Compensation Act 1961 shall, so far as applicable and subject to any necessary modifications, have effect as they have effect for the purpose of assessing compensation for the compulsory acquisition of an interest in land.

(5) Where an interest in land is subject to a mortgage—

(a) any compensation to which this section applies which is payable in respect of depreciation of the value of that interest shall be assessed as if the interest were not subject to the mortgage;

(b) a claim for any such compensation may be made by any mortgagee of the interest, but without prejudice to the making of a claim by the person entitled to the interest;

(c) no compensation to which this section applies shall be payable in respect of the interest of the mortgagee (as distinct from the interest which is subject to the mortgage); and

(d) any compensation to which this section applies which is payable in respect of the interest which is subject to the mortgage shall be paid to the mortgagee (or, if there is more than one mortgagee, to the first mortgagee) and shall in either case be applied by him as if it were proceeds of sale.

(6) Except in so far as may be otherwise provided by any regulations made under this Act, any question of disputed compensation under this section shall be referred to and determined by the [F34 Upper Tribunal].

(7) In relation to the determination of any such question, the provisions of [F35 section] 4 of the Land Compensation Act 1961 shall apply subject to any necessary modifications and to the provisions of any regulations made under this Act.

Textual Amendments

F32 Words in s. 250(1) inserted (3.7.2000) by 1999 c. 29, s. 270, Sch. 22 para. 6(2) (with Sch. 12 para. 9(1)); S.I. 2000/801, art. 2(2)(c), Sch.

F33 S. 250(2) repealed (27.7.1992) by Planning and Compensation Act 1991 (c. 34, SIF 123:1), ss. 32, 84(6), Sch. 7 para. 39, Sch. 19 Pt. I (with s. 84(5)); S.I. 1992/1630, art. 2, Schs. 1, 2 (with art. 3(1))

F34 Words in s. 250(6) substituted (1.6.2009) by The Transfer of Tribunal Functions (Lands Tribunal and Miscellaneous Amendments) Order 2009 (S.I. 2009/1307), art. 5(1)(2), Sch. 1 para. 209(a)

F35 Word in s. 250(7) substituted (1.6.2009) by The Transfer of Tribunal Functions (Lands Tribunal and Miscellaneous Amendments) Order 2009 (S.I. 2009/1307), art. 5(1)(2), Sch. 1 para. 208(b)

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C7 S. 250: power to modify conferred (10.11.1993) by 1993 c. 28, s. 171(3)(b); S.I. 1993/2762, art. 3

Marginal Citations

M5 1961 c. 33.

251 Extinguishment of public rights of way over land held for planning purposes. E+W

(1) Where any land has been acquired or appropriated for planning purposes and is for the time being held by a local authority for the purposes for which it was acquired or appropriated, the Secretary of State may by order extinguish any public right of way over the land if he is satisfied—

(a) that an alternative right of way has been or will be provided; or

(b) that the provision of an alternative right of way is not required.

(2) In this section any reference to the acquisition or appropriation of land for planning purposes shall be construed in accordance with section 246(1) as if this section were in Part IX.

(3) Subsection (1) shall also apply (with the substitution of a reference to the Broads Authority for the reference to the local authority) in relation to any land within the Broads which is held by the Broads Authority and which was acquired by, or vested in, the Authority for any purpose connected with the discharge of any of its functions.

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C8 S. 251: power to apply (with modifications) conferred by Local Government, Planning and Land Act 1980 (c. 65, SIF 123:1), s. 149(3)(b), Sch. 29 Pt. II para. 7 as substituted by Planning (Consequential Provisions) Act 1990 (c. 11, SIF 123:1, 2), s. 4, Sch. 2 para. 44(13)

C9 S. 251 restricted (17.7.1992) by S.I. 1992/1492, reg. 15(5)

S. 251: power to modify conferred (10.11.1993) by 1993 c. 28, s. 171(3)(b); S.I. 1993/2762, art. 3

C10 S. 251 applied (with modifications) (7.6.2004) by The Milton Keynes (Urban Area and Planning Functions) Order 2004 (S.I. 2004/932), art. 5, Sch. para. 7 (with arts. 6, 7)

S. 251 applied (with modifications) (12.10.2005) by The Thurrock Development Corporation (Planning Functions) Order 2005 (S.I. 2005/2572), art. 5 (with arts. 6, 7)

S. 251 applied (with modifications) (31.10.2005) by The London Thames Gateway Development Corporation (Planning Functions) Order 2005 (S.I. 2005/2721), art. 6

S. 251 applied (with modifications) (6.4.2006) by The West Northamptonshire Development Corporation (Planning Functions) Order 2006 (S.I. 2006/616), art. 6

S. 251 applied (with modifications) (7.9.2006) by The Olympic Delivery Authority (Planning Functions) Order 2006 (S.I. 2006/2185), art. 6

C11 S. 251 applied (with modifications) (1.10.2012) by The London Legacy Development Corporation (Planning Functions) Order 2012 (S.I. 2012/2167), arts. 1, 7 (with Sch. 1, Sch. 2)

C12 S. 251 applied (with modifications) (1.4.2015) by The Old Oak and Park Royal Development Corporation (Planning Functions) Order 2015 (S.I. 2015/442), arts. 1, 7 (with Sch.)

C13 S. 251 applied (with modifications) (1.7.2015) by The Ebbsfleet Development Corporation (Planning Functions) Order 2015 (S.I. 2015/748), arts. 1, 5 (with Sch.)

C14 S. 251(1) extended (19.9.1995) by 1995 c. 25, ss. 65(7), 125(2), Sch. 8 para. 2(3)(a) (with ss. 7(6), 115, 117, Sch. 8 para. 7)

252 Procedure for making of orders. E+W

(1) Before making an order under section 247, 248, 249 or 251 the Secretary of State [F36 or, as the case may be, the council of a London borough] shall publish in at least one local newspaper circulating in the relevant area, and in the London Gazette, a notice—

(a) stating the general effect of the order;

(b) specifying a place in the relevant area where a copy of the draft order and of any relevant map or plan may be inspected by any person free of charge at all reasonable hours during a period of 28 days from the date of the publication of the notice (“the publication date”); and

(c) stating that any person may within that period by notice to the Secretary of State [F37 or, as the case may be, the council of the London borough] object to the making of the order.

(2) Not later than the publication date, the Secretary of State [F38 or, as the case may be, the council of the London borough] shall serve a copy of the notice, together with a copy of the draft order and of any relevant map or plan—

(a) on every local authority in whose area any highway or, as the case may be, any land to which the order relates is situated, and

[F39 (aa) on any National Park authority which is the local planning authority for the area in which any highway or, as the case may be, any land to which the order relates is situated, and]

(b) on any water, sewerage, hydraulic power or electricity undertakers or [F40 public gas transporter] having any cables, mains, sewers, pipes or wires laid along, across, under or over any highway to be stopped up or diverted, or, as the case may be, any land over which a right of way is proposed to be extinguished, under the order.

(3) Not later than the publication date, the Secretary of State [F41 or, as the case may be, the council of the London borough] shall also cause a copy of the notice to be displayed in a prominent position at the ends of so much of any highway as is proposed to be stopped up or diverted or, as the case may be, of the right of way proposed to be extinguished under the order.

[F42 (3A) Where the Welsh Ministers are proposing to make an order under section 247, 248 or 251 in connection with development of national significance—

(a) subsection (1) has effect as if for “shall” there were substituted “may”;

(b) subsections (2) and (3) apply only if the Welsh Ministers publish a notice under subsection (1).]

(4) If before the end of the period of 28 days mentioned in subsection (1)(b) an objection is received by the Secretary of State [F43 or, as the case may be, the council of the London borough,] from any local authority [F44 National Park authority] or undertakers or [F40 public gas transporter] on whom a notice is required to be served under subsection (2), or from any other person appearing to [F45 to the Secretary of State or, as the case may be, the council] to be affected by the order, and the objection is not withdrawn, then

[F46 (a) in a case where the Secretary of State is proposing to make an order, he shall cause a local inquiry to be held unless subsection (5) applies, or

(b) in a case where the council of a London borough is proposing to make an order, it shall notify the Mayor of London of the objections and shall cause a local inquiry to be held unless subsection (5A) applies.]

(5) If, in a case where [F47 the Secretary of State is proposing to make an order and] the objection is made by a person other than such a local authority or undertakers or [F40 transporter], the Secretary of State is satisfied that in the special circumstances of the case the holding of such an inquiry is unnecessary he may dispense with the inquiry.

[F48 (5A) In a case where—

(a) the council of a London borough is proposing to make the order,

(b) the council has under subsection (4)(b) notified the Mayor of London of the objections, and

(c) none of the objections notified is made by such a local authority or undertakers or transporter as are mentioned in that subsection,

the Mayor of London shall decide whether, in the special circumstances of the case, the holding of such an inquiry is unnecessary, and if he decides that it is unnecessary he shall so notify the council which may dispense with the inquiry.]

(6) Subsections (2) to (5) of section 250 of the M6 Local Government Act 1972 (local inquiries: evidence and costs) shall apply in relation to an inquiry caused to be held by the Secretary of State [F49 or the council of a London borough] under subsection (4).

[F50 (6A) In their application to an inquiry caused to be held by the council of a London borough—

(a) subsection (4) of section 250 of the Local Government Act 1972 shall be treated as if—

(i) for the reference to a Minister there were substituted a reference to the council of a London borough,

(ii) for the reference to him there were substituted a reference to the council,

(iii) for the reference to he there were substituted a reference to the council acting with the consent of the Mayor of London, and

(iv) for the references to the Minister there were substituted references to the council of the London borough, and

(b) subsection (5) of that section shall be treated as if—

(i) for the reference to the Minister there were substituted a reference to the council of a London borough, and

(ii) the power to make an order as to the costs of parties were subject to a requirement to act with the consent of the Mayor of London.]

[F51 (6B) Where the Welsh Ministers are proposing to make an order under section 247, 248 or 251 in connection with development of national significance, subsections (6C) and (6D) apply in place of subsections (4) to (6).

(6C) The Welsh Ministers may cause a local inquiry to be held if—

(a) they have published a notice under subsection (1)(b),

(b) before the end of the period of 28 days mentioned in subsection (1)(b) they receive an objection from a person mentioned in subsection (2)(a) to (b), or from any other person appearing to them to be affected by the order, and

(c) the objection is not withdrawn.

(6D) Subsections (2) and (3) of section 250 of the Local Government Act 1972 and section 322C apply in relation to an inquiry caused to be held by the Welsh Ministers under subsection (6C).]

(7) Where publication of the notice mentioned in subsection (1) takes place on more than one day, the references in this section to the publication date are references to the latest date on which it is published.

(8) [F52 Where the Secretary of State is proposing to make an order,] after considering any objections to the order which are not withdrawn and, where a local inquiry is held, the report of the person who held the inquiry, the Secretary of State may, subject to subsection (9), make the order either without modification or subject to such modifications as he thinks fit.

[F53 (8A) Where the council of a London borough is proposing to make an order, after—

(a) considering any objections to the order which are not withdrawn, and

(b) where a local inquiry is held—

(i) considering the report of the person who held the inquiry, and

(ii) obtaining the consent of the Mayor of London to the making of the order,

the council may, subject to subsection (9), make the order either without modification or subject to such modification as it thinks fit.]

(9) Where—

(a) the order contains a provision requiring any such payment, repayment or contribution as is mentioned in section 247(4)(a); and

(b) objection to that provision is duly made by an authority or person who would be required by it to make such a payment, repayment or contribution; and

(c) the objection is not withdrawn,

the order shall be subject to special parliamentary procedure.

(10) Immediately after the order has been made, the Secretary of State [F54 or, as the case may be, the council of the London borough] shall publish, in the manner specified in subsection (1), a notice stating that the order has been made and naming a place where a copy of the order may be seen at all reasonable hours.

[F55 (10A) Nothing in subsection (2) shall require the council of a London borough to serve anything on itself.]

(11) Subsections (2), (3) and (7) shall have effect in relation to a notice under subsection (10) as they have effect in relation to a notice under subsection (1).

(12) In this section—

• [F56 “development of national significance” is to be interpreted in accordance with section 62D;]

• “the relevant area”, in relation to an order, means the area in which any highway or land to which the order relates is situated;

• “local authority” means the council of a county, [F57 county borough,] district, parish [F58 , community] or London borough, [F59 a [F60 police and crime commissioner, the Mayor's Office for Policing and Crime,] . . . ] a joint authority established by Part IV of the M7 Local Government Act 1985, [F61 an economic prosperity board established under section 88 of the Local Democracy, Economic Development and Construction Act 2009, a combined authority established under section 103 of that Act,] [F62 a fire and rescue authority created by an order under section 4A of the Fire and Rescue Services Act 2004,] [F63 the London Fire Commissioner,] a housing action trust established under Part III of the M8 Housing Act 1988 [F64 , the Residuary Body for Wales (Corff Gweddilliol Cymru)] and the parish meeting of a F65 . . . parish not having a separate parish council;

and in subsection (2)—

(i) the reference to water undertakers shall be construed as including a reference to [F66 the Environment Agency and the Natural Resources Body for Wales, and]

(ii) the reference to electricity undertakers shall be construed as a reference to holders of licences under section 6 of the M9 Electricity Act 1989 who are entitled to exercise any power conferred by paragraph 1 of Schedule 4 to that Act.

Textual Amendments

F36 Words in s. 252(1) inserted (3.7.2000) by 1999 c. 29, s. 270, Sch. 22 para. 7(2)(a) (with Sch. 12 para. 9(1)); S.I. 2000/801, art. 2(2)(c), Sch.

F37 Words in s. 252(1) inserted (3.7.2000) by 1999 c. 29, s. 270, Sch. 22 para. 7(2)(b) (with Sch. 12 para. 9(1)); S.I. 2000/801, art. 2(2)(c), Sch.

F38 Words in s. 252(2) inserted (3.7.2000) by 1999 c. 29, s. 270, Sch. 22 para. 7(3) (with Sch. 12 para. 9(1)); S.I. 2000/801, art. 2(2)(c), Sch.

F39 S. 252(2)(aa) inserted (23.11.1995) by 1995 c. 25, s. 78, Sch. 10 para. 32(7)(a) (with ss. 7(6), 115, 117, Sch. 8 para. 7); S.I. 1995/2950, art. 2(1)

F40 Words in s. 252(2)(b)(4)(5) substituted (1.3.1996) by 1995 c. 45, s. 16(1), Sch. 4 para. 18(1)(a)(b)(c); S.I. 1996/218, art. 2

F41 Words in s. 252(3) inserted (3.7.2000) by 1999 c. 29, s. 270, Sch. 22 para. 7(4) (with Sch. 12 para. 9(1)); S.I. 2000/801, art. 2(2)(c), Sch.

F42 S. 252(3A) inserted (W.) (1.3.2016) by The Developments of National Significance (Specified Criteria and Prescribed Secondary Consents) (Wales) Regulations 2016 (S.I. 2016/53), regs. 1(1), 16(2)

F43 Words in s. 252(4) inserted (3.7.2000) by 1999 c. 29, s. 270, Sch. 22 para. 7(5)(a) (with Sch. 12 para. 9(1)); S.I. 2000/801, art. 2(2)(c), Sch.

F44 Words in s. 252(4) inserted (23.11.1995) by 1995 c. 25, s. 78, Sch. 10 para. 32(7)(b) (with ss. 7(6), 115, 117, Sch. 8 para. 7); S.I. 1995/2950, art. 2(1)

F45 Words in s. 252(4) inserted (3.7.2000) by 1999 c. 29, s. 270, Sch. 22 para. 7(5)(b) (with Sch. 12 para. 9(1)); S.I. 2000/801, art. 2(2)(c), Sch.

F46 S. 252(4)(a)(b) substituted (3.7.2000) for words in s. 252(5) by 1999 c. 29, s. 270, Sch. 22 para. 7(5)(c) (with Sch. 12 para. 9(1)); S.I. 2000/801, art. 2(2)(c), Sch.

F47 Words in s. 252(5) inserted (3.7.2000) by 1999 c. 29, s. 270, Sch. 22 para. 7(6) (with Sch. 12 para. 9(1)); S.I. 2000/801, art. 2(2)(c), Sch.

F48 S. 252(5A) inserted (3.7.2000) by 1999 c. 29, s. 270, Sch. 22 para. 7(7) (with Sch. 12 para. 9(1)); S.I. 2000/801, art. 2(2)(c), Sch.

F49 Words in s. 252(6) inserted (3.7.2000) by 1999 c. 29, s. 270, Sch. 22 para. 7(8) (with Sch. 12 para. 9(1)); S.I. 2000/801, art. 2(2)(c), Sch.

F50 S. 252(6A) inserted (3.7.2000) by 1999 c. 29, s. 270, Sch. 22 para. 7(9) (with Sch. 12 para. 9(1)); S.I. 2000/801, art. 2(2)(c), Sch.

F51 S. 252(6B)-(6D) inserted (W.) (1.3.2016) by The Developments of National Significance (Specified Criteria and Prescribed Secondary Consents) (Wales) Regulations 2016 (S.I. 2016/53), regs. 1(1), 16(3)

F52 Words in s. 252(8) inserted (3.7.2000) by 1999 c. 29, s. 270, Sch. 22 para. 7(10) (with Sch. 12 para. 9(1)); S.I. 2000/801, art. 2(2)(c), Sch.

F53 S. 252(8A) inserted (3.7.2000) by 1999 c. 29, s. 270, Sch. 22 para. 7(11) (with Sch. 12 para. 9(1)); S.I. 2000/801, art. 2(2)(c), Sch.

F54 Words in s. 252(10) inserted (3.7.2000) by 1999 c. 29, s. 270, Sch. 22 para. 7(12) (with Sch. 12 para. 9(1)); S.I. 2000/801, art. 2(2)(c), Sch.

F55 S. 252(10A) inserted (3.7.2000) by 1999 c. 29, s. 270, Sch. 22 para. 7(13) (with Sch. 12 para. 9(1)); S.I. 2000/801, art. 2(2)(c), Sch.

F56 Words in s. 252(12) inserted (W.) (1.3.2016) by The Developments of National Significance (Specified Criteria and Prescribed Secondary Consents) (Wales) Regulations 2016 (S.I. 2016/53), regs. 1(1), 16(4)

F57 Words in the definition of "local authority" in s. 252(12) inserted (1.4.1996) by 1994 c. 19, s. 20(4), Sch. 6 Pt. II para. 24(10)(a) (with ss. 54(5)(7), 55(5), Sch. 17 paras. 22(1), 23(2)); S.I. 1996/396, art. 3, Sch. 1

F58 Words in the definition of "local authority" in s. 252(12) inserted (1.10.1995) by 1994 c. 19, s. 20(4), Sch. 6 Pt. II para. 24(10)(b) (with ss. 54(5)(7), 55(5), Sch. 17 paras. 22(1), 23(2)); S.I. 1995/2490, art. 4(1), Sch. 2

F59 Words in the definition of "local authority" in s. 252(12) inserted (1.10.1994 for specified purposes and otherwise 1.4.1995) by 1994 c. 29, s. 43, Sch. 4 Pt. II para. 63; S.I. 1994/2025, art. 6(1)(2)(g) (with art. 6(6)); S.I. 1994/3262, art. 4(1), Sch.

F60 Words in s. 252(12) substituted (16.1.2012) by Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011 (c. 13), s. 157(1), Sch. 16 para. 209; S.I. 2011/3019, art. 3, Sch. 1 (with Sch. 2 para. 56)

F61 S. 252(12): words in definition of "local authority" inserted (17.12.2009) by Local Democracy, Economic Development and Construction Act 2009 (c. 20), ss. 119, 148, 149, Sch. 6 para. 82(2); S.I. 2009/3318, art. 2

F62 Words in s. 252(12) inserted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 3.4.2017 in so far as not already in force) by Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), s. 183(1)(5)(e), Sch. 1 para. 69; S.I. 2017/399, reg. 2, Sch. para. 38

F63 Words in s. 252(12) substituted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 1.4.2018 in so far as not already in force) by Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), s. 183(1)(5)(e), Sch. 2 para. 93; S.I. 2018/227, reg. 4(c)

F64 Words in the definition of "local authority" in s. 252(12) inserted (5.7.1994) by 1994 c. 19, ss. 39, 66(2)(b), Sch. 13 para. 32 (with ss. 54(5)(7), Sch. 17 paras. 22(1), 23(2))

F65 Word in the definition of "local authority" in s. 252(12) repealed (8.11.1995) by 1995 c. 44, s. 1(1), Sch. 1 Pt. VI

F66 Words in s. 252(12)(i) substituted (1.4.2013) by The Natural Resources Body for Wales (Functions) Order 2013 (S.I. 2013/755), art. 1(2), Sch. 2 para. 201 (with Sch. 7)

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C15 S. 252 modified (1.4.1995) by S.I. 1995/401, art. 18, Sch. para. 2(b)

Marginal Citations

M6 1972 c. 70.

M7 1985 c. 51.

M8 1988 c. 50.

M9 1989 c. 29.

253 Procedure in anticipation of planning permission. E+W

(1) Where—

(a) the Secretary of State [F67 or the council of a London borough] would, if planning permission for any development had been granted under Part III, have power to make an order under section 247 or 248 authorising the stopping up or diversion of a highway in order to enable that development to be carried out, F68 ...

F68 (b) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

then, notwithstanding that such permission has not been granted, the Secretary of State [F69 or, as the case may be, the council of the London borough] may publish notice of the draft of such an order in accordance with section 252.

[F70 (1A) Where—

(a) the Welsh Ministers would, if planning permission for any development had been granted under Part 3, have power to make an order under section 247 or 248 authorising the stopping up or diversion of a highway in order to enable that development to be carried out, and

(b) subsection (2), (3) or (4) applies,

then, notwithstanding that such permission has not been granted, the Welsh Ministers may publish notice of the draft of such an order in accordance with section 252.]

(2) This subsection applies where the relevant development is the subject of an application for planning permission and either—

(a) that application is made by a local authority [F71 National Park authority] or statutory undertakers F72 . . .; or

[F73 (aa) that application has been made to the Welsh Ministers under section 62D, 62F, 62M or 62O; or]

(b) that application stands referred to the [F74 Welsh Ministers] in pursuance of a direction under section 77; or

(c) the applicant has appealed to the [F74 Welsh Ministers] under section 78 against a refusal of planning permission or of approval required under a development order [F75 or a local development order] or against a condition of any such permission or approval.

(3) This subsection applies where—

(a) the relevant development is to be carried out by a local authority [F71 National Park authority] or statutory undertakers and requires, by virtue of an enactment, the authorisation of a government department; and

(b) the developers have made an application to the department for that authorisation and also requested a direction under section 90(1) that planning permission be deemed to be granted for that development.

(4) This subsection applies where the council of a county [F76 or county borough,] a National Park authority or a joint planning board certify that they have begun to take such steps, in accordance with regulations made by virtue of section 316, as are required to enable them to obtain planning permission for the relevant development.

(5) Section 252(8) shall not be construed as authorising the Secretary of State [F77 , the council of a London borough or the Welsh Ministers] to make an order under section 247 or 248 of which notice has been published by virtue of subsection (1) [F78 or, as the case may be, (1A)] until planning permission is granted for the development which occasions the making of the order.

Textual Amendments

F67 Words in s. 253(1) inserted (3.7.2000) by 1999 c. 29, s. 270, Sch. 22 para. 8(2)(a) (with Sch. 12 para. 9(1)); S.I. 2000/801, art. 2(2)(c), Sch.

F68 S. 253(1)(b) omitted (25.6.2013) by virtue of Growth and Infrastructure Act 2013 (c. 27), ss. 11(2), 35(3)

F69 Words in s. 253(1) inserted (3.7.2000) by 1999 c. 29, s. 270, Sch. 22 para. 8(2)(b) (with Sch. 12 para. 9(1)); S.I. 2000/801, art. 2(2)(c), Sch.

F70 S. 253(1A) inserted (25.6.2013) by Growth and Infrastructure Act 2013 (c. 27), ss. 11(3), 35(3)

F71 Words in s. 253(2)(a)(3)(a) inserted (23.11.1995) by 1995 c. 25, s. 78, Sch. 10 para. 32(8)(a) (with ss. 7(6), 115, 117, Sch. 8 para. 7); S.I. 1995/2950, art. 2(1)

F72 Words in s. 253(2)(a) repealed (31.10.1994) by 1994 c. 21, s. 67, Sch. 9 para. 39(1), Sch. 11 Pt. II (with s. 40(7)); S.I. 1994/2553, art. 2

F73 S. 253(2)(aa) inserted (6.9.2015 for specified purposes) by Planning (Wales) Act 2015 (anaw 4), s. 58(2)(b)(4)(b), Sch. 4 para. 13

F74 Words in s. 253(2) substituted (25.6.2013) by Growth and Infrastructure Act 2013 (c. 27), ss. 11(4)(a), 35(3)

F75 Words in s. 253(2) substituted (25.6.2013) by Growth and Infrastructure Act 2013 (c. 27), ss. 11(4)(b), 35(3)

F76 Words in s. 253(4) substituted (25.6.2013) by Growth and Infrastructure Act 2013 (c. 27), ss. 11(5), 35(3)

F77 Words in s. 253(5) substituted (25.6.2013) by Growth and Infrastructure Act 2013 (c. 27), ss. 11(6)(a), 35(3)

F78 Words in s. 253(5) inserted (25.6.2013) by Growth and Infrastructure Act 2013 (c. 27), ss. 11(6)(b), 35(3)

254 Compulsory acquisition of land in connection with highways. E+W

(1) The Secretary of State, or a local highway authority [F79 or a strategic highways company] on being authorised by the Secretary of State to do so, may acquire land compulsorily—

(a) for the purpose of providing or improving any highway which is to be provided or improved in pursuance of an order under section 247, 248 or 249 or for any other purpose for which land is required in connection with the order; or

(b) for the purpose of providing any public right of way which is to be provided as an alternative to a right of way extinguished under an order under section 251.

(2) The M10 Acquisition of Land Act 1981 shall apply to the acquisition of land under this section.

Textual Amendments

F79 Words in s. 254(1) inserted (5.3.2015) by Infrastructure Act 2015 (c. 7), s. 57(1), Sch. 1 para. 106; S.I. 2015/481, reg. 2(a)

Marginal Citations

M10 1981 c. 67.

255 Concurrent proceedings in connection with highways. E+W

(1) In relation to orders under sections 247, 248 and 249, regulations made under this Act may make provision for securing that any proceedings required to be taken for the purposes of the acquisition of land under section 254 (as mentioned in subsection (1)(a) of that section) may be taken concurrently with any proceedings required to be taken for the purposes of the order.

(2) In relation to orders under section 251, regulations made under this Act may make provision for securing—

(a) that any proceedings required to be taken for the purposes of such an order may be taken concurrently with any proceedings required to be taken for the purposes of the acquisition of the land over which the right of way is to be extinguished; or

(b) that any proceedings required to be taken for the purposes of the acquisition of any other land under section 254 (as mentioned in subsection (1)(b) of that section) may be taken concurrently with either or both of the proceedings referred to in paragraph (a).

256 Telecommunication apparatus: orders by Secretary of State. E+W

(1) Where—

(a) in pursuance of an order under section 247, 248 or 249 a highway is stopped up or diverted or, as the case may be, any right to use vehicles on that highway is extinguished; and

(b) immediately before the date on which the order came into force there was under, in, on, over, along or across the highway any [F80 electronic communications apparatus] kept installed for the purposes of [F81 an electronic communications code network],

the operator of that [F82 network] shall have the same powers in respect of the apparatus as if the order had not come into force.

(2) Notwithstanding subsection (1), any person entitled to land over which the highway subsisted shall be entitled to require the alteration of the apparatus.

(3) Where—

(a) any such order provides for the improvement of a [F83 highway for which the Secretary of State is not the highway authority], and

(b) immediately before the date on which the order came into force there was under, in, on, over, along or across the highway any [F80 electronic communications apparatus] kept installed for the purposes of [F81 an electronic communications code network] ,the F84 ... highway authority shall be entitled to require the alteration of the apparatus.

(4) Subsection (3) does not have effect so far as it relates to the alteration of any apparatus for the purpose of [F85 major highway works, major bridge works or major transport works within the meaning of Part III of the New Roads and Street Works Act 1991].

(5) [F86 Paragraph [F87 108(2)] of Schedule 3A to the Communications Act 2003 (the electronic communications code)] (alteration of apparatus to include moving, removal or replacement of apparatus) shall apply for the purposes of this section as it applies for the purposes of that code.

(6) [F88 Part 6 of the electronic communications code (rights to require removal of electronic communications apparatus)] shall apply in relation to any entitlement conferred by this section to require the alteration, moving or replacement of any [F80 electronic communications apparatus] as it applies in relation to an entitlement to require the removal of any such apparatus.

Textual Amendments

F80 Words in s. 256 substituted (25.7.2003 and 29.12.2003 in accordance with the commencing S.I.s) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), ss. 406, 411, Sch. 17 para. 103(1)(c)(2)(c) (with transitional provisions in Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/1900, arts. 1(2), 2(1), Sch. 1 (with transitional provisions in arts. 3-6); S.I. 2003/3142, arts. 1(2), 3(2) (with art. 11)

F81 Words in s. 256 substituted (25.7.2003 and 29.12.2003 in accordance with the commencing S.I.s) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), ss. 406, 411, Sch. 17 para. 103(1)(c)(2)(b) (with transitional provisions in Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/1900, arts. 1(2), 2(1), Sch. 1 (with transitional provisions in arts. 3-6); S.I. 2003/3142, arts. 1(2), 3(2) (with art. 11)

F82 Word in s. 256 substituted (25.7.2003 and 29.12.2003 in accordance with the commencing S.I.s) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), ss. 406, 411, Sch. 17 para. 103(1)(c)(2)(e) (with transitional provisions in Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/1900, arts. 1(2), 2(1), Sch. 1 (with transitional provisions in arts. 3-6); S.I. 2003/3142, arts. 1(2), 3(2) (with art. 11)

F83 Words in s. 256(3) substituted (1.11.1991) by New Roads and Street Works Act 1991 (c. 22, SIF 59, 108), s. 168(1), Sch. 8 para. 126(1)(2); S.I. 1991/2288, art. 3, Sch.

F84 Word in s. 256(3) omitted (5.3.2015) by virtue of Infrastructure Act 2015 (c. 7), s. 57(1), Sch. 1 para. 107; S.I. 2015/481, reg. 2(a)

F85 Words in s. 256(4) substituted (1.1.1993) by New Roads and Street Works Act 1991 (c. 22, SIF 59, 108), s. 168(1), Sch. 8 para. 126(1)(3); S.I. 1992/2984, art. 2(2), Sch. 2

F86 Words in s. 256(5) substituted (28.12.2017) by Digital Economy Act 2017 (c. 30), s. 118(6), Sch. 3 para. 29(2); S.I. 2017/1286, reg. 2(d)

F87 Word in s. 256(5) substituted (28.12.2017 immediately after Digital Economy Act 2017 (c. 30), Sch. 3 comes into force) by The Communications Act 2003 and the Digital Economy Act 2017 (Consequential Amendments to Primary Legislation) Regulations 2017 (S.I. 2017/1285), reg. 1(1)(2), Sch. 1 para. 6(2)

F88 Words in s. 256(6) substituted (28.12.2017) by Digital Economy Act 2017 (c. 30), s. 118(6), Sch. 3 para. 29(3); S.I. 2017/1286, reg. 2(d)