3(1)As soon as reasonably practicable after receiving a certificate under paragraph 2(3), the authority shall—E+W+S
(a)investigate the matters stated in the application; and
(b)after consulting with every local authority whose area includes the land to which the application relates, decide whether to make or not to make the order to which the application relates.
(2)If the authority have not determined the application within twelve months of their receiving a certificate under paragraph 2(3), then, on the applicant making representations to the Secretary of State, the Secretary of State may, after consulting with the authority, direct the authority to determine the application before the expiration of such period as may be specified in the direction.
(3)As soon as practicable after determining the application, the authority shall give notice of their decision by serving a copy of it on the applicant and any person on whom notice of the application was required to be served under paragraph 2(1).