DPDs are subject to independent scrutiny through an examination process to consider whether they are ‘sound’, both in content and the process by which they are produced. PPS12 (para 4.24) sets out nine tests which a DPD should meet if it is to be ‘sound’. There is a presumption that “the DPD is sound unless it is shown to be otherwise as a result of evidence considered at the examination” (PPS12 para 4.24), it therefore being the responsibility of interested parties to scrutinise the documents and evidence upon which they are based.

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