LPAs and the DCO Examination Process - Practical Tips for LPAs - Francis Taylor Building

LPAs, as statutory consultees, play a vital role in the DCO examination process for Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects proposed within their areas. NSIPs represent some of the largest and most complex developments in the planning system, and the DCO regime provides a distinct, centralised consenting process for such projects.

Local authorities are key participants throughout this process, contributing local knowledge, shaping project outcomes, and ensuring that the impacts on communities, infrastructure, and the environment are fully considered. The DCO examination process is both demanding and highly rigorous, differing significantly from the determination of conventional planning applications, and requiring early engagement, careful preparation, and sustained input.

Mark O'Brien O'Reilly, a leading planning and infrastructure barrister (Planning Magazine ranks him as one of the top junior planning barristers in the country whilst he is ranked by Chambers and Partners 2026 in Band 5 for planning and the Legal 500 2026 calls him a rising star) will provide expert insight into the DCO examination process from the perspective of LPAs, together with practical guidance on how to navigate its complexities effectively and maximise influence within the examination process.

This webinar is essential for all LPAs that are, or expect to be, involved in DCO examinations and wish to engage with confidence and authority.