Consultation

Consultation has been defined as the process of dialogue that leads to a decision. Effective consultation is a key part of the policy-making process, and is now an essential stage in the implementation of a project as well. Requirements for consultation and stakeholder engagement are increasingly set by statute and case law, at both national and EU levels, as well as by expectations and standards of best practice.

There have been a number of successful challenges to decisions on the basis of inadequate or flawed consultation. These include the challenge by Greenpeace in 2007 to the Government’s consultation on nuclear power, and the successful challenge to the redevelopment of Alexandra Palace.

Effective consultation minimises legal and reputational risks. It also enables better policy making and allows projects to be delivered more quickly and efficiently, as well as helping to build support and identify opposition as early as possible.

Our unique combination of legal and public affairs expertise means that we can advise clients on all issues relating to consultation – from legal requirements and obligations, through to best practice in planning and implementing a consultation programme. Managing consultation effectively the first time round not only minimises legal and reputational risks, it can also reduce costs and provide greater certainty.