5

This paragraph does not apply to applications for scheduled monument consent in respect of works to a scheduled monument situated in Wales.

3A

1

This paragraph applies to applications for scheduled monument consent in respect of works to a scheduled monument situated in Wales.

2

The Welsh Ministers may grant scheduled monument consent in respect of all or any part of the works to which an application relates.

3

Before determining whether or not to grant scheduled monument consent on an application, the Welsh Ministers may—

a

cause a public local inquiry to be held; or

b

afford to the applicant, and to any other person to whom it appears to the Welsh Ministers expedient to do so—

i

an opportunity to appear before and be heard by a person appointed by the Welsh Ministers for that purpose; or

ii

an opportunity to make representations to a person appointed by the Welsh Ministers for that purpose.

4

Before determining whether or not to grant scheduled monument consent on an application, the Welsh Ministers—

a

must, in every case, consider any representations made by any person with respect to that application; and

b

must also, if an inquiry or hearing has been held or representations have been made in accordance with sub-paragraph (3), consider the report of the person who held the inquiry or hearing or to whom the representations were made.

5

The Welsh Ministers must serve notice of their decision with respect to the application on the applicant and on every person who has made representations with respect to the application.