SOLICITORS warn that new rules for operators appearing at public inquiries (PI) in light of Covid-19 could jeopardise fair hearings and may result in a rise in the number of appeals, writes Chris Tindall.
The senior traffic commissioner (TC) has produced a guidance document explaining the rules around attendance and preparation for anyone appearing at a PI as lockdown restrictions are eased.
According to Backhouse Jones lawyer Mark Davies, it includes a request that paperwork is lodged with the TC at least seven days before a hearing, the inclusion of limits on the number of people who can attend PIs and a ban on the use of consultation rooms prior to a hearing.
