PART 3Applications and proposals to amend the registers

Changes of procedure35

1

This regulation applies where notice has been given under regulation 29 that a public inquiry or (where the Planning Inspectorate is the determining authority) a hearing is to be held in relation to the application or proposal.

2

Where a registration authority is the determining authority it may, subject to paragraph (3), decide at any time before the start of a public inquiry to cancel the inquiry and determine the application without holding an inquiry.

3

The registration authority must consult the applicant before deciding to cancel a public inquiry in relation to an application.

4

Where the Planning Inspectorate is the determining authority it may, subject to paragraph (5), decide at any time before the start of a public inquiry or hearing—

a

to cancel the inquiry or hearing and determine the application without holding an inquiry or hearing; or

b

to hold a hearing instead of an inquiry, or vice versa.

5

The Planning Inspectorate must consult—

a

the applicant, before deciding to change the procedure for determining an application; or

b

the referring authority, before deciding to change the procedure for determining a proposal.