Public Inquiry Workshop

This course took the form of a practical workshop carefully designed to improve the performance of anyone who might have been called upon to participate in a Public Inquiry concerned with the historic environment. The aims were to present the terms of procedure, the roles of the participants, and the general feel of a Public Inquiry.

A mock Public Inquiry was mounted using a genuine case study. Training for potential witnesses was provided on how to prepare evidence for a Public Inquiry, how to produce proofs of evidence, and how to experience them being given and tested under realistic conditions.

Before the course, participants received a study pack, including a guide to the preparation of evidence. Each participant was allocated a role to play in the Inquiry and asked to prepare a proof of evidence to fit this role. Participants indicated their areas of interest or expertise in advance of the course to ensure appropriate role assignments.

The Inquiry was video recorded to allow for analysis and feedback to be given on the final day.