Government publishes consultation on draft national policy statements for energy infrastructure

A new streamlined planning system is to be introduced for applications to build nationally significant infrastructure in England and Wales, including major energy generation, railways, ports, major roads, airports and water and waste infrastructure. Under the system, ministers will set out national policy in a series of national policy statements. The Infrastructure Planning Commission will examine and decide applications, based on the policy need set out in the statements, while considering evidence on the potential effects on the localities. The government has published for public consultation the first tranche of draft national policy statements covering energy infrastructure and port developments. The energy infrastructure consultation ends on 22 February 2010. View the consultation The port development consultation ends on 15 February 2010 View the consultation