In the Town and Country Planning (Environmental Impact Assessment) Regulations 2017, specific requirements and procedures were set out to ensure effective consultation with relevant stakeholders, including the public and statutory consultees

These regulations aimed to enhance transparency and public engagement in the decision-making process. Here are the key elements related to consultation procedures as outlined in the regulations:

1. Pre-Application Consultation

Developers are encouraged to engage with local communities and statutory consultees before submitting an EIA application. This early engagement helps identify potential issues and concerns that can be addressed in the Environmental Statement (ES).

2. Publicity Requirements

The regulations mandate that local planning authorities must publicize EIA applications to ensure the public and relevant stakeholders are aware of the proposed development. This includes:

  • Publishing a notice in a local newspaper.
  • Displaying site notices at or near the location of the proposed development.
  • Making information available on the local authority’s website.

3. Consultation with Statutory Consultees

The local planning authority is required to consult with statutory consultees, such as environmental agencies, heritage bodies, and other relevant organizations, to obtain their input on the potential environmental impacts of the proposed development.

4. Public Participation

The public must be given an opportunity to comment on the EIA application and the Environmental Statement. The regulations specify a minimum consultation period, typically 30 days, during which stakeholders can review and provide feedback on the submitted documents.

5. Availability of Information

The Environmental Statement and other relevant documents must be made readily accessible to the public and consultees. This includes providing physical copies at designated locations (e.g., local council offices) and making electronic copies available online.

6. Consideration of Responses

The local planning authority must take into account all feedback and representations received during the consultation period when making their decision on the EIA application. This ensures that the views of the public and consultees are considered in the decision-making process.

7. Decision Notice

Once a decision has been made, the local planning authority must publish a notice of their decision, including the reasons for granting or refusing permission and any conditions imposed. This notice should also outline how the public and consultees’ feedback was taken into account.

8. Post-Decision Information

Information about the decision, including the Environmental Statement and the decision notice, must be made publicly available. This transparency ensures that stakeholders are informed about the outcomes and the rationale behind the decision.

These consultation procedures are designed to ensure that the EIA process is transparent, inclusive, and participatory, allowing for meaningful input from the public and relevant stakeholders. This helps to enhance the quality and legitimacy of the decision-making process related to environmentally significant developments.