Writing a Proof of Evidence for a Planning Appeal Inquiry with Meyric Lewis KC

Introduction

This session for planning professionals and officers will tell you all you need to know for writing an informed and persuasive proof of evidence for Section 78 planning appeal inquiries.

This virtual classroom session will give you confidence that you have covered all the basics and complied with the legal and professional formalities to put you in a position where you can be confident that you have made the most convincing case.

The detailed requirements in the new Procedural Guide for Planning Appeals (September 2024) will be explored, and the rules on giving expert evidence to stand you in good stead in any forthcoming inquiry will be explained. The advice given will also serve as a template for planning appeal statements for written representation and informal hearing appeals.

The session combines in-depth knowledge of the applicable rules and will help you avoid commonplace traps and pitfalls for the uninitiated. The session concludes with practical tips on how to present your evidence in chief, the testing of your evidence under cross-examination and clarifying your case in re-examination.

What You Will Learn

This live and interactive course will cover the following:

• Rules and requirements for preparing your proof
• Structure is key - how to present all the relevant information and important case points in a logical and persuasive order
• Your duties as an expert witness
• The relationship between proofs of evidence, statements of case, and statements of common ground
• The respective roles of witnesses for the appellant and planning authority
• Tips and advice on presenting your evidence in chief, under cross-examination and re-examination
• When rebuttal evidence may be allowed
• How to save time in preparing your summary proof
• How to make the best impression in presenting your evidence

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.