Where exceptions to a report of viewers are filed, the court shall proceed to hear and determine the same in the manner exceptions to reports of viewers are generally proceeded with within the county. Where an appeal is taken, it shall state the grounds upon which it is taken and shall be accompanied by an affidavit that it is not taken for the purpose of delay, but because the appellant believes that injustice has been done.
Upon the trial of any appeal or the hearing of any exceptions, in case the appellant or party excepting does not obtain a verdict or decree more favorable than was the report of viewers, he shall not recover any costs.
The court of common pleas shall order what notices shall be given in connection with such proceedings by exceptions or appeals and may by rule or otherwise prescribe the form of the pleadings.
The court may also in proper cases consolidate proceedings by exceptions or by appeals into a single proceeding.
53 P.S. § 2872