Adequate time should be given for all consultation. The 1925 and 1939 Acts state a minimum of 1 month for a notice to be displayed or for consultation to take place. Best practice suggests the consultation period should be 4-6 weeks. However, the specific length of consultation will also be dependent on any local acts, the Local Authority’s governance and any length of time specified in their SNN policy.
Whilst the Acts state a manner in which to consult, this should be treated as a minimum. So, for example, the 1925 Act has a requirement to display notices at the ends of the street but it would be wise to issue a circular to each property too.
The SNN office should seek assistance from the local authority’s legal team/advisers when designing a consultation approach.