The Programme Officer’s primary role is to organise and administer an independent, cost-effective and efficient Inquiry under the direction and guidance of the Inspector(s) – effectively becoming the Inspector’s ‘right hand man’ throughout the Inquiry process.
The Programme Officer reports only to the Inspector and is the link between him/her and the Appellant/Promoter and other interested parties.
Most Inquiries hold a Pre-Inquiry Meeting (PIM) and our team are proficient in arranging these and distributing notice of the PIM, the setting up arrangements, providing an attendance list, assisting the Inspector with his Notes and then circulating these to respondents, agents, media, PINS (The Planning Inspectorate) and any other parties where required. If a PIM is not being held a Procedural Note will be issued as a replacement of the Inquiry Note.
We will also play a major role in the preparation and maintenance of the Inquiry Programme in conjunction with the Inspector, there can be frequent revisions to this programme clearly making use of our flexible, patient and sensitive role.
Persona has experienced Programme Officers who know what it takes to ensure the smooth running of Public Inquiries. We are responsible for managing the day to day arrangements of the Inquiry, before, during and to an extent, after the Inquiry is held. This includes dealing with correspondence on behalf of the Inspector and recording all documents submitted to the Inquiry, prior to and during the Inquiry so our proven excellent administration and organisational skills are fundamental qualities that we bring.
Our aim is to give all the parties the best possible service.
Graham Groom
Joanna Vincent
Brenda Taplin
Jennifer Batson
Steve Western
Lynette Duncan