270.This section amends section 170 of the TA 2000. The effect of subsection (2) is to require a local charging authority in England, prior to making a charging scheme, to consult such local persons and such representatives of local persons (as defined in the provision) as they consider appropriate. It does not affect the existing powers in section 170 for local authorities in England to decide for themselves whether to consult on varying or revoking a scheme or to hold an inquiry into a scheme. The effect of subsections (3) to (5) is to remove the power for the Secretary of State to hold an inquiry in relation to a proposed local scheme in England or to require a local authority to consult on a proposed charging scheme.
271.The amendments also preserve the existing provisions in the TA 2000 for a local charging authority in Wales to decide whether to consult on, or hold an inquiry into, the making, varying or revocation of a local charging scheme in Wales, or for the Welsh Ministers to hold an inquiry into a local charging scheme in Wales, or to require a local authority to consult on such a scheme.