Wiring 'safe Zones' near a consumer unit. Pedantic concern after inspection.

Back to the OP with another thought, the reason given by the LA Inspector at first fix is incorrect, if we leave it purely as 522.6.202 in isolation. But there may be other situations where it is not quite the correct thing to do. The section is 522.6 [impact]. In my opinion you start with 522.6.1, consider where the cables are going, what type and what  may or may not happen to that bit of wall from the top of the CU to the ceiling. Most of the time it is fine, but what if you know or have been told that the CU is going to be enclosed in its own cupboard, perhaps matching similar cupboards in the area? I suppose that switchgear is no longer that obvious to someone deciding to do a bit of DIY shelving. As the potential target is now fairly wide, much more than your typical 150mm width, a direct hit is more likely. Where the cables are installed can now be in an unexpected position.

Back to the OP with another thought, the reason given by the LA Inspector at first fix is incorrect, if we leave it purely as 522.6.202 in isolation. But there may be other situations where it is not quite the correct thing to do. The section is 522.6 [impact]. In my opinion you start with 522.6.1, consider where the cables are going, what type and what  may or may not happen to that bit of wall from the top of the CU to the ceiling. Most of the time it is fine, but what if you know or have been told that the CU is going to be enclosed in its own cupboard, perhaps matching similar cupboards in the area? I suppose that switchgear is no longer that obvious to someone deciding to do a bit of DIY shelving. As the potential target is now fairly wide, much more than your typical 150mm width, a direct hit is more likely. Where the cables are installed can now be in an unexpected position.