In-person public inquiries resume

This story was correct as of 3 July

Face-to-face tribunal hearings in front of the traffic commissioners for Great Britain, including public inquiries, are due to resume from 6 July, following their suspension in March as a precaution during the Covid-19 pandemic.

The Office of the Traffic Commissioner (OTC) said each tribunal location had been risk assessed and appropriate control measures identified.

Steps are in place to maintain social distancing and ensure that facilities are Covid-secure. The health and safety of attendees, staff and the commissioners themselves remains of paramount importance, OTC said, and underpins the decision to resume in-person hearings.

Those called to a hearing will be advised of the time and date, with sufficient notice given to prepare their case. OTC will provide advice on the steps they may need to take ahead of the hearing in the provision of evidence, and on arrival to assist in maintaining social distancing and ensuring hygiene standards.

Observers wanting to attend will need to contact the OTC in advance. This is because the capacity of the tribunal rooms will be restricted during the current period. Some hearings may continue to be held via video link or equivalent. This will be limited to appropriate cases only.

Anyone called to a public inquiry who has concerns about attending in person should let OTC staff know immediately on receipt of the letter calling them to a hearing.