Independent Inspectors Project - Appointment Process, Q&As

What is the objective of this project?

The main objective of this project is to put in place robust arrangements to enable the Department to exercise its powers under the Planning (Northern Ireland) Act 2011 (the 2011 Act) to appoint persons as an alternative option to the Planning Appeals Commission (PAC), with the view to supporting the timely progression of regionally significant and called-in planning applications; and local development plans independent examinations through more flexible and efficient “Hear and Report” processes. 

What is Hear and Report work?

“Hear and Report” work refers to independent examinations for local development plan documents and public local inquiries or hearings held for regionally significant or called‑in planning applications.

Why is the Department seeking to appoint inspectors?

Under the Planning Act (Northern Ireland) 2011, when the Department makes the decision to cause an independent examination, public local inquiry or hearing to be carried out it can appoint the PAC; or a person appointed by the Department. 

The Department has always relied on the PAC to carry out “Hear and Report” work, but ongoing challenges with capacity have led to delays in this area of work which has significant implications for our economy, environment and society.

What is the role of the Person Appointed (Independent Inspector)?

The independent inspector will be responsible for leading the “Hear and Report” function of independent examinations, public local inquiries, or hearings. The independent inspector will review evidence, identify and consider issues and provide clear, well-justified recommendations to the Department. More detail on the role and responsibilities will be set out in the candidate information booklet which will be available to view on the Department’s website in due course.

Will inspectors have any administrative support?

When work is allocated to an independent inspector, a dedicated programme officer will be appointed to support the inspector in the successful delivery of their work, providing essential logistical, administrative, and co-ordination assistance throughout the “Hear and Report” process.

Do individuals need to be based in Northern Ireland or can they travel?

No, individuals are not required to be based in Northern Ireland. However, from time to time they must be able to travel to Northern Ireland to preside over independent examinations, public local inquiries or hearings where they are scheduled to be held in person. 

Will the Department still use the Planning Appeals Commission to carry out Hear and Report Work?

Yes. This project seeks to provide an additional resource to the PAC to enable existing "Hear and Report" work to be carried out in a more timely manner. 

How much work can an inspector expect to get?

Work will be distributed according to the demand and capacity of independent inspectors, as well as the resources available to the PAC. The program of work is extensive, including the examination of several development plan documents throughout all council areas. Additionally, there are various regionally significant or called-in planning applications that may require public local inquiries or hearings.

What are the terms and conditions of any appointment?

The terms and conditions of any appointment will be set out in the candidate information booklet which will be available on the Department’s website once the appointment process commences. Successful individuals will be appointed to an open list for the duration of the project on a zero-hour basis.

What allowances are payable?

Appropriate allowances will be payable in accordance with NICS terms and conditions.

Will inspectors be provided with any training?

Appropriate induction training will be provided for the newly appointed inspectors, specific to the planning system in Northern Ireland.

Do inspectors need to work within set hours?

The role is predominantly home-based, with most work (reading submissions, analysing evidence, writing reports) done from home. Inspectors can manage their own time for this work but must be available at set times for independent examinations, hearings or public local inquiries, and will be required to travel to venues across Northern Ireland as needed.  Inspectors must also meet the timetables and milestones set by the Department to ensure reports are delivered on time and in line with the terms of the appointment.