Planning reforms to fast-track big infrastructure projects, announced by government this week, are unlikely to take effect before 2009, officials said yesterday.
Industry has called for the new body to be set up as quickly as possible, to help resolve the lengthy delays that afflict the antiquated planning system.
But the government has warned it will take significant time to implement the proposals, which are contained in the Treasury-commissioned Barker report published this week.
Ministers have promised to issue a white paper in the spring.
Consultation, legislation and regulations will be needed before the commission can be created.
References: Financial Times 09/12/06 page 5
