Determination of applications

20.—(1) The authority shall not grant an approval if the application has not been made in accordance with these regulations.

(2) The authority shall not grant an approval if, in its opinion –

(a)the place will compromise the solemnity and dignity of civil marriage;

(b)the place has a recent or continuing connection with any religious body or religious practice which would be incompatible with the use of that place for the solemnisation of civil marriages; or

(c)the place does not fulfil any other reasonable requirements which the authority considers appropriate to ensure that the facilities provided at the place are suitable.

(3) The authority shall not grant an approval without –

(a)having regard to the guidance issued by the Registrar General under regulation 34; and

(b)taking account of any objections in respect of the application which have been made in accordance with regulation 19.

(4) The authority shall not grant a place approval if, in its opinion, the applicant is not a fit and proper person.