19/07/2011

Energy Planning Reforms Approved By Parliament

Developers of major energy projects in England and Wales will now have greater certainty on how planning applications will be considered after the Energy National Policy Statements (NPS) were designated. This follows approval in a House of Commons vote last night.

The independent Infrastructure Planning Commission will now use the NPSs to inform planning decisions. The NPSs will be used in future for recommendations by the IPC's successor, subject to passage of the Localism Bill.

The designation means that the NPSs now have effect when companies submit planning applications for new nuclear power stations at any of the eight locations listed in the Nuclear NPS.

Charles Hendry, Minister for Energy said: "Far too often the planning system has resulted in delay and indecision over major energy projects and things simply not getting built.

"We are removing uncertainty to give industry the confidence to invest in much needed new energy infrastructure in this country."

Decentralisation Minister Greg Clark said: "Energy projects provide a real growth opportunity for this country and will bring billions of pounds of investment that will not only lead to jobs but essential new infrastructure.

"These statements are an important part of the package of reforms Government is making to the planning system and will ensure faster decisions can be made."

(BMcN)

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