296.—(1) A person who intends to make a request under section 297 may, before making that request, apply to the Board for the Board’s consent to the person’s consulting with the Board in relation to the intended request.

(2) The Board may, in any consultation with a person in relation to an intended request under section 297, advise the person in relation to—

(a) the making of the request, and

(b) the considerations with regard to—

(i) objectives of maritime spatial planning,

(ii) principles of proper planning and sustainable development, and

(iii) the protection of the environment or any European site,

that are likely to have a bearing on its decision in relation to the request.

(3) The Board shall prepare and maintain a record in writing of each consultation to which this section applies.

(4) The performance by the Board of functions under this section shall not—

(a) prejudice the performance by it of any of its other functions in relation to the requesting person, requested alteration or development concerned, or

(b) be relied on by any person in relation to an application or request under this Chapter or in proceedings before a court relating to such application or request.]