Planning Judicial Review via Skype
On 24 March 2020, Richard Ground QC and Ben Du Feu appeared in one of the first remote substantive hearings in the Planning Court. The case was heard by Lang J and concerned the proper approach to the allocation of local green space in development plans. Judgment was reserved.
The judicial review was carried out as an audio hearing over Skype for Business. The parties and the court staff worked together to test the technology the day before the hearing. Six people dialled into the hearing, all of whom were participating from different places.
The technology worked well and the experience demonstrates that the courts can and should remain open for business in these challenging times.
Cornerstone Barristers are set up to conduct hearings whether by audio or video conferencing.
The judiciary has issued guidance for the conduct of remote hearings which can be found here.
Richard and Ben acted for Lochailort Investments Ltd and were instructed by Harry Campbell of Harrison Grant.
