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The Electricity Generating Stations and Overhead Lines (Inquiries Procedure) (England and Wales) Rules 2007

The new Rules have been introduced following commitments given in the July 2006 Command Paper "Our Energy Challenge" (The Energy Challenge. Energy review report 2006 [Cm 6887] (see 'Related Documents').

Following the consultation, the final rules were introduced on 6 April 2006. The new procedures take account of the existing best practice inquiry procedures for large infrastructure projects consented under the Town and Country Planning (Major Infrastructure Project Inquiries Procedure) (England) Rules 2005 (S.I. 2005/2115) (see 'External Links').

The purpose of the new inquiry procedures is to achieve significant improvements in the time taken to handle major infrastructure projects by streamlining the process and reducing unnecessary delays whilst continuing to ensure that the inquiry is a forum in which all appropriate interests have a voice and all the relevant issues are fully and fairly considered.

The inquiry process remains firmly grounded in the principles of openness, fairness and impartiality. At the same time, it has become increasingly clear that without impairing either the quality of decisions or participants' ability to present their case fully and fairly, it is possible for all involved to assist in speeding up the process. The better use of resources should ensure that matters are handled as efficiently as possible. It is important that all interested parties read the accompanying guidance for participants. The advice in the guidance is intended to be a guide as to the operation of the Rules. It is not definitive. An authoritative statement of the law can only be made by the Courts.

A copy of the final Electricity Generating Stations and Overhead Lines (Inquiries Procedure) (England and Wales) Rules 2007 can be found on the Office of Public Sector Information website (see 'External Links').  The accompanying Guidance for participants and final Regulatory Impact Assessment can be found under 'Related Documents'.