The Planning Inspectorate has unveiled the second phase of its guidance series for developers undertaking Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects (NSIPs).
- Key updates include changes to Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) notification and consultation, alongside introductions of new guidance on commitments registers and solar development scoping.
- The latest advice reflects amendments in infrastructure planning regulations, aiming to streamline application and examination processes.
- The response from industry experts is mixed, with civil engineers largely welcoming the advice, while legal perspectives differ regarding its significance.
- New guidelines also provide direction for environmental impact assessments, focusing on significant effects rather than a broad environmental scope.
The Planning Inspectorate has recently issued the second phase of its advisory series for developers engaged in Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects (NSIPs). This phase delivers fresh insights into cumulative effects assessment and the habitats regulations, among other areas.
A notable update in the new advice concerns the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) procedures, particularly focusing on notification and consultation. These changes are in line with the recent amendments made to the Infrastructure Planning Regulations, which were disseminated earlier this year on 30 April 2024.
The new guidance also extends to commitments registers and the scoping of solar developments. This revision is poised to assist developers in crafting applications that are more appropriately scaled and facilitate smoother examinations, minimising bureaucratic hindrances.
From an industry standpoint, these updates have garnered a positive reception, especially regarding the additions about commitments registers and solar development. However, there is a variance in perspectives among legal experts about the overall impact of these updates on infrastructural planning processes.
Technical director at Aecom, Naomi Kretschmer, expressed optimism, stating that the updates are welcomed across the industry, especially the new advice pertaining to commitments registers and changes in EIA-related notifications.
John Pounder from Jacobs highlighted that these refreshed materials would aid promoters in navigating the complex Development Consent Order (DCO) process, reflecting the practical experiences of handling NSIPs over the years.
Matt Fox from Pinsent Masons acknowledged the importance of the guidance for solar projects, noting its relevance in managing recurring issues and encouraging a concentrated focus on potential significant environmental effects.
The revised guidelines also delve into collaboration with the Environment Agency, underscoring the necessity for careful integration of permitting and developmental consent processes. This is crucial for water projects that might be affected by legislative updates.
Meanwhile, BDB Pitmans’ partner Angus Walker noted that while some advice themes are not new, they are pivotal in aligning existing guidance with contemporary legal frameworks and practices. Innovations like registers of commitments are increasingly integral to DCO applications, reflecting the rising number of solar developments.
The updated guidance aims to advance the efficiency of infrastructure project assessments by refining application processes and regulatory compliance.
