Barristers positive about experience of appearing in one of first remote substantive hearings in Planning Court

Richard Ground QC and Ben Du Feu of Cornerstone Barristers appeared yesterday (24 March) in a case heard by Mrs Justice Lang concerning the proper approach to the allocation of local green space in development plans. Judgment was reserved.

Cornerstone said the judicial review was carried out as an audio hearing over Skype for Business. The parties and the court staff had worked together to test the technology the day before the hearing. Six people dialled into the hearing, all of whom were participating from different places. 

The set said: “The technology worked well and the experience demonstrates that the courts can and should remain open for business in these challenging times.”

Ground and du Feu acted for Lochailort Investments in the case before Lang J, instructed by Harry Campbell of Harrison Grant.

Last Friday the judiciary issued guidance for the conduct of remote hearings in civil justice in England and Wales.