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 and makes various amendments to existing planning legislation.

Description

The bill creates the IPC, an independent body responsible for planning major infrastructure projects. It will handle applications, consult with stakeholders, and make decisions or recommendations to the Secretary of State. Nationally significant infrastructure projects include large-scale energy, transport, water, and waste facilities. The bill sets specific criteria for what qualifies as a nationally significant project. Development consent from the IPC will override other consent requirements, although certain exceptions exist for projects in Wales and cases of national security. The bill details the application process, including pre-application consultation and public notification requirements. It also outlines procedures for handling applications and for making decisions, allowing for both Panel and single-Commissioner procedures, and incorporates mechanisms for the Secretary of State to intervene. The bill also introduces a Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL), a charge on developers to fund infrastructure related to the development.

National Policy Statements

The Secretary of State can issue National Policy Statements (NPS) to set out national policy on specific development types. The NPS will guide the IPC’s decision making and will be subject to parliamentary review.

Compulsory Acquisition

The bill provides a framework for compulsory land acquisition for nationally significant projects, with provisions for compensation and special procedures for certain types of land (e.g., commons, Green Belt land).

Enforcement

The bill details enforcement mechanisms for unauthorized development or breaches of development consent orders, including fines, injunctions, and the power for local authorities to take remedial action.

Amendments to Existing Planning Regimes

The bill also amends existing town and country planning legislation, addressing issues such as planning obligations, blighted land, and tree preservation orders.

Government Spending

The bill's financial implications are not explicitly stated in the provided text. However, it is expected to involve government spending on establishing and supporting the IPC and managing the CIL. The exact figures are not available in the bill itself. It also includes provision for the payment of compensation in certain circumstances.

Groups Affected

• Developers: Will be significantly impacted by the new development consent process and CIL.
• Local Authorities: Will have a reduced role in the planning process for nationally significant projects but will have an input through consultation.
• Landowners: May be affected by compulsory acquisition, with compensation provided, and have rights to consultation and objection.
• Community Groups: Will have the right to participate in the consultation process for both nationally significant infrastructure projects and smaller developments.
• Statutory Undertakers: Their existing powers and responsibilities will be affected by the need for development consent for their projects.
• Environmental Groups: Will be involved in the consultation process and will have rights to challenge decisions through judicial review.

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