Baker Consultants' Managing Director, Andrew Baker has amassed considerable experience of public inquiry work from open case coal applications to airports, landfill and leisure and housing projects.  This experience informs the whole ethos of the company, "We always keep in mind that on any project our work may be subject to the detailed scrutiny of a public inquiry."

Methodology
The optimum outcome at any PI is to successfully negotiate an agreed approach and get objections removed before the inquiry, saving inquiry time and the client money. Through our good relationships with organisations such as Natural England, RSPB and Local Wildlife Trusts we will achieve this in most cases. 

For the 10% of times when we simply cannot agree common ground, then Andrew will present a well-constructed, concise, science-based case to support his position. Andrew has the advantage of not only understanding the ecological science but through his long involvement in the practical application of nature conservation law, he is able to work with the legal team to help present the most robust case in terms of both law and policy. 

"The development of ecological law over the past 20 years has been fascinating. I estimate 90% of our work has some kind of legal backing whether it be protected species, EIA regulations, protection of designated sites or European law. The law and its interpretation through policy is therefore at the heart of most of what we do and a full understanding of its implications is essential."

Why choose Baker Consultants
Referring to his recent work at a public inquiry, Stephen Tromans QC (39 Essex Street) said; "Andrew was extremely thorough and thoughtful in preparing his evidence for the inquiry, in anticipating the possibly contentious and difficult areas. He gave his evidence in a very clear and confident manner and dealt well with points raised in cross-examination."

Andrew has a reputation of the being thorough and has been described as being "forensically curious". I am one of those rare people who actually enjoys being on the stand. I like the intellectual rigor of the inquiry process and the challenge of presenting often complex, scientific evidence plainly and succinctly."