Our view

The Government is proposing to change the planning system to speed up major developments – such as power stations.

Major Infrastructure Projects
A wide variety of conservation and civic charities have called on the Government to reconsider its proposals for speeding up the planning and building of major infrastructure – such as motorways, big power stations, runways, ports, waste incinerators and reservoirs. 

The Government's headline proposals are going ahead in the Planning Act. We have helped bring about a number of beneficial changes on the initial draft of the Bill, such as a stronger role for Parliament in scrutinising National Policy Statements, a more open inquiry process for major infrastructure projects, and the scope for the IPC's decision making powers to be removed by Ministers at a later date.

We fear the Bill could lead to a reduction in the level of real community involvement in deciding what major infrastructure projects get built in their local area. It has the potential to result in a ‘twin track’ approach where scheme promoters and large environmental organisations will engage in consultation but individuals and communities will find it difficult to have their voices heard.

CPRE is also worried that the IPC's membership will be focused on promoting major infrastructure projects and won’t have enough people with a robust environmental background.