s 7 Independent examination
(1) The Department may cause an independent examination to be carried out by the planning appeals commission for the purpose of considering objections to a development plan or to the alteration, repeal or replacement of a development plan. (2) Any person who makes objections to a development plan or to the alteration, repeal or replacement of a development plan shall, if he so requests, be given the opportunity to appear before and be heard by the planning appeals commission.