6f12f48a_tional_Infrastructure_Planning__Answer
[Topic/Question] Can the response periods for Local Authorities (LAs) be extended to take into account resource issues? In particular, Local Impact Reports (LIRs) will require LAs to obtain responses from statutory and other consultees. [Answer] 
The time frame prescribed for the examination stage is fixed and so local authorities must expect to submit the LIR within a very short time frame. It is very important therefore for local authorities to begin work on the LIR well before the start of the examination. There is no requirement under Section 60 of the Planning Act 2008 for LAs to carry out a consultation exercise prior to preparing and submitting their LIR to the Planning Inspectorate. Statutory consultees and other interested parties may submit their representations directly to the Planning Inspectorate. Guidance on the preparation of LIRs is available in Advice Note 1: Local Impact Reports and section 10 of Communities and Local Government Guidance for Local Authorities. The deadline for the submission of the LIR will be set by the Examining Authority at or soon after the preliminary meeting. The LIR is an important report giving details of the likely impact of the proposed development on the authority's area. The LA can decide on the contents of the report. The LIR must be considered by the decision-maker.
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