Explanatory Note
(This note is not part of the Rules)
These Rules regulate the procedures to be followed in England and Wales in respect of public local inquiries which are held in connection with schemes and orders proposed to be made by the Secretary of State or made by local highway authorities under Part II of the Highways Act 1980.
They replace the Highways (Inquiries Procedure) Rules 1976 (S.I. 1976/721), which are revoked, subject to the transitional provisions contained in rule 30(2).
These Rules establish a detailed timetable for each procedural step, and provide for the submission of proofs of evidence in advance of the inquiry in addition to the regulation of matters relating to the conduct of the inquiry itself and to the notification of the Secretary of State’s decision. Other new features include the regulation of pre-inquiry meetings and provisions relating to assessors, whom the Secretary of State may appoint to sit with and advise inspectors. There are also minor and drafting amendments, some of which are consequential upon the consolidation in 1980 of highways legislation.