(1)  The periods referred to in section 27H may be extended by –

(a) any period as determined by a written agreement between the Board and the applicant or proponent at any time before the expiration of the period to be extended; or

(b) a period not exceeding half of the relevant period under section 27H as the Minister may determine on application by the Board.

(2)  An extension under subsection (1)(b) may be made only –

(a) before the expiration of the relevant period specified in section 27H ; and

(b) where the Minister determines that there are special circumstances preventing the Board from complying with section 27H .

(3)  The Board must give written notice of an extension –

(a) under subsection (1)(a) to the planning authority, in the case of an application referred to the Board under section 24(1) or section 25(1) ; or

(b) under subsection (1)(b) to –

(i) the applicant or proponent; and

(ii) the planning authority, in the case of an application referred to the Board under section 24(1) or section 25(1) .

(4)  Notice under subsection (3) must be given within 7 days after the agreement under subsection (1)(a) or the Minister's determination under subsection (1)(b) , as the case may be.