Stop a single Minister having the final say on national infrastructure projects

Amend the Planning Act 2008 to end the system where one Minister makes final decisions on Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects (NSIPs). We want this power transferred to an independent panel of experts or decided by a vote in Parliament ensuring transparent and collective decision-making.

One politician can currently approve huge projects like pylons, solar farms or motorways, even if an independent inquiry recommends refusal. We believe this creates a risk of political bias and undermines public trust. These projects affect the environment and communities for generations; they are too significant for one person to decide alone. We feel that moving to a panel or Parliamentary vote ensures decisions are expert-led and carry a stronger democratic mandate for the nation’s future infrastructure.

The government does not intend to introduce new primary legislation to amend the Planning Act 2008 to transfer decision-making powers for NSIPs from Secretaries of State to an independent panel or to a vote in Parliament.

Parliament has conferred responsibility for determining applications for development consent under the Planning Act 2008 to the relevant Secretary of State. This includes decisions on Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects (NSIPs) such as major train lines and power stations.

While this function sits with the Secretary of State, it must be exercised in accordance with the statutory framework passed by Parliament, following an examination by an appointed Examining Authority. Ministerial decisions are subject to transparency requirements and can be legally challenged.

The Planning Act 2008 establishes a system that combines independent examination with Ministerial decision-making that is accountable. Before a decision is made, applications are subject to detailed examination by an independent Examining Authority appointed by the Planning Inspectorate (acting on behalf of the Secretary of State). Local communities, local authorities, statutory bodies and other interested parties have opportunities to submit evidence and make representations during this process. The Examining Authority then produces a recommendation report for the relevant Secretary of State.

The government considers it appropriate that final decisions on nationally significant infrastructure remain with Ministers. Within the legal and policy framework, these projects often require the balancing of a range of considerations of national importance, including economic growth, energy security, transport connectivity, environmental protection, local impacts and the infrastructure need.