Overview

This Planning Bill establishes the Infrastructure Planning Commission (IPC) to streamline the planning process for nationally significant infrastructure projects. It also introduces a Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) to fund infrastructure improvements. The bill aims to speed up the development of essential infrastructure while ensuring environmental protection and community engagement.

Description

The bill creates the IPC, an independent body responsible for authorizing large-scale infrastructure projects. It outlines the IPC’s structure, code of conduct, and fee-charging powers. The bill defines "nationally significant infrastructure projects," including energy generation, transport, water management, and waste facilities, setting thresholds for each. It establishes a new development consent regime, replacing existing planning permissions and authorizations for designated projects. The process includes pre-application consultation, application submission to the IPC, examination by the IPC (via a panel or single commissioner), and a decision by the IPC or the Secretary of State, who can intervene in specific circumstances. The bill also introduces a Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL), a charge on developers to fund local infrastructure improvements. The bill includes provisions for compulsory land acquisition, compensation, enforcement, and various amendments to existing planning legislation.

Government Spending

The bill's financial implications are complex. The establishment and operation of the IPC will require government funding, although specific figures aren't provided in the bill text. The CIL is intended to generate revenue to offset infrastructure costs, reducing the overall burden on government spending, although the extent of this reduction is uncertain.

Groups Affected

• Developers of nationally significant infrastructure projects: Will face a new planning process, potentially affecting timelines and costs, but may also benefit from streamlined approvals.
• Local authorities: Will have a reduced role in planning for nationally significant infrastructure but will have input during the IPC’s consultation process and could receive CIL funds for infrastructure improvements.
• Communities near infrastructure projects: Will be directly impacted by the projects and have opportunities for participation in the consultation process.
• Landowners: May be subject to compulsory land acquisition, with provisions for compensation.
• Statutory undertakers: Will be affected by the development consent regime and land acquisition provisions.
• Environmental groups: Will have opportunities to participate in the consultation processes, influencing project designs and mitigating environmental impacts.

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