Could you let me know the criteria used to identify which local authorities are consulted on matters associated with Heathrow Expansion such as the recent EIA scoping opinion consultation? I have seen the PI FAQ on EIA scoping opinions which defines types A, B, C and D local authorities, but would like further information on how this is applied to these applications.

The criteria used to identify local authorities to be consulted are set out in our Advice Note Three: EIA consultation and notification attachment 1 and are defined in s43 of the Planning Act 2008. The Planning Inspectorate uses a dedicated GIS system that identifies relevant consultation bodies in accordance with the regulations and our advice.