Appeal - hearings

I am just going through the experience of an appeal by way of hearing on the amended rules. Since April 2009, parties have 1 shot at their pre hearing statements and no longer have a 9 week opportunity to comment on statements from the other side and third parties. Whereas this clearly will cut down on paperwork, and of course the Inspector can allow comments at the hearing, there must be a risk that debate at the hearing will be more protracted and even that there may need to be an adjournment if a point is raised by way of comment, which the other parties need time to consider. This may be more of a risk with issues raised by third parties because, in theory, there should be no surprises as between the main parties. I'd be interested in any recent experience readers have had on the operation of the amended rules.