Communication channels operate at different organisational levels. Peer-to-peer discussions may differ depending on the issue. Operational matters will require frequent communication, and more strategic or health-check discussions will occur regularly but less frequently.
Direct communication is important. The private party's management will prefer to hear criticism and discuss issues directly with their public sector counterparts, rather than through indirect channels.
Agreed protocols are necessary for peer-to-peer communication to function effectively. Where necessary, these protocols should also provide for consultation between the parties in relation to communications between them and third parties. For example, it is appropriate for the parties to consult each other on the content of any public communication in relation to the project, and protocols around this are typically set out in the project deed. In the case of larger projects with significant public profiles, the parties should have regular formal meetings to discuss public relations.