Section 9: Inquiries and hearings
32.This section allows the Scottish Ministers to hold an inquiry or hearing into an application or a proposal for an order. It obligates, under subsection (3), the Scottish Ministers to hold an inquiry or hearing if it is requested by, and there is a valid objection from, a local authority or National Park authority or Transport Partnership in whose area works would be carried out, or a navigation authority affected by any works proposed by the order, or Network Rail Infrastructure Limited (if the proposed works affect the construction or operation of a railway) or someone subject to a compulsory purchase of their interest in land.