Expediency

May 14th, 2020 by James Goudie KC

Numerous statutory powers are expressed in terms of what is “ expedient “ or “ necessary or expedient “. What is meant by “ expedient”? The use of the word “ expedient” suggests that “ a broad balance or judgment is to be made by the decision-maker”. So said Lieven J at para 43 in Open Spaces Society v SoS for DEFRA (2020) EWHC 1085 ( Admin ), a case on diversion of a public footpath, in accordance with Section 119 of the Highways Act 1980.

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