The public inquiry into commercial development on Tooting Common Triangle
Public Inquiry - Tuesday, 7th June 2022
The public inquiry into the proposal for privately-run, commercial astroturf pitches on Tooting Triangle will be held in June 2022.
The case will be opened by the Planning Inspector with Wandsworth Council beginning by making the argument for enclosing the current area of hardstanding, leasing it for (at least) 25 years to a private company, with floodlights in nightly use and pitches charged out at around £80 an hour.
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Email: thetootingcommon.people@gmail.com to find out how to join in making the community case.
What you need to know:
How often are Public Inquiries held?
There are just three or four public inquiries held by the Planning Inspectorate across England a year.
Who will make the decision?
The Planning Inspector, in this case, Mr Richard Perrin.
When and where will it be held?
On 7th June, 2022, at Wandsworth Town Hall. The inquiry will be held between 10am and 4pm and has initially been scheduled to last for six days, although it may be less.
Is there flexibility about when I can appear?
The Planning Inspectorate say they will try to do what they can to accommodate people’s differing schedules, but indicating the times most likely to suit in the objector’s submission (see below) can also help.
What happens before the inquiry starts?
The applicant, Wandsworth Council, and its supporters must present a bundle by Tuesday, 12th April, 2022, to include a summary of their case and copies of the documents they plan to use in evidence. Those objecting need to create their own bundle, or bundles, and submit it by 26th April.
Can the general public speak?
Yes, even if they haven’t made a formal objection, time is made available for the public to speak. The Planning Inspectorate says: “We are usually very good at accommodating people who wish to speak.” Often this can be fairly early on in the inquiry, when the Inspector asks if there is anyone else who wishes to speak - but the timings of these comments are then to be decided. Anyone who speaks, or the witnesses they call, may also be cross-examined by the applicant.
Can I give evidence remotely?
No, probably not. The policy on giving evidence by Zoom or Microsoft Teams is still evolving and appearing in person is still likely to be necessary by the time of the hearing. It could be useful to offer up a time for public contributions in the objector’s bundle. There is also no upper limit on those who can speak.
Can you present materials/film/video etc?
Yes, but these requirements will need to be conveyed to the applicant, who is hosting the hearing, ahead of time so they can prepare.
Is food or refreshment provided?
No, it’s not.
Is there a site visit?
Yes, usually towards the end of the inquiry the Inspector will go to the site to consider any geological features that may be important. The Inspector may also decide to visit by himself or herself beforehand.
How do people know what’s scheduled to happen?
Early on in the hearing, the Inspector will set out a running order for proceedings.
How long does it take for a decision to be reached?
The Inspector’s Report is usually issued six or eight weeks after the end of the inquiry.