Planning Appeals - From Preparation to Performance

Introduction

Planning appeals can be won and lost on the quality of preparation and performance, both for appellants and local authorities. With nearly 20,000 appeal decisions being issued by the Planning Inspectorate on a yearly basis, they provide a vital component of the planning system. Yet the process is often costly, time consuming and, for many, stressful. There are, however, a number of key practical tips and strategies that can make a real difference to a party’s prospects of success.

This virtual classroom seminar will provide an overview of the key stages of the appeal process from start letter to decision. In so doing, it will provide a practical guide to how professionals in this field can achieve better results for their clients, identifying not only strategies for success, but also means of avoiding common pitfalls.

What You Will Learn

This live and interactive session will cover the following:

• Choosing an appeal format: written representations, hearing, or appeal?
• Choosing your witnesses: what makes a good witness?
• What makes a good Statement of Case and how to avoid common pitfalls
• Statements of common ground: how to use them effectively
• A practical guide to preparing proofs of evidence
• What to include and what not to include in rebuttal evidence
• How to navigate a hearing or inquiry effectively
• Strategies for witness handling
• A guide to being a good witness
• How to deploy (and respond to) costs applications
• Tips for effective closing submissions

Recording of live sessions: Soon after the Learn Live session has taken place you will be able to go back and access the recording - should you wish to revisit the material discussed.