Source · Select Committees · Transport Committee
Recommendation 1
1
Accepted
Paragraph: 18
Review the National Networks National Policy Statement proactively following changes to net zero policies.
Recommendation
The review of the NNNPS was overdue. It was launched to bring the policy framework for major infrastructure schemes up to date, and as a response to legal challenges to schemes prompted by the introduction of significant net zero legislation. The Government should have been proactive and reviewed the NNNPS upon the introduction of net zero targets, and should do so when any changes are made to the net zero target policies.
Government Response Summary
The government commits to reviewing National Policy Statements (NPSs) at least every five years, reflecting this commitment in the revised NNNPS text. They will also commission an external review of the NPS review and designation process and consider updating NPS review guidance.
Paragraph Reference:
18
Government Response
Accepted
HM Government
Accepted
As set out in the NSIP Reform Action Plan and the government’s response to the National Infrastructure Commission’s (NIC) report on improving nationally significant infrastructure planning, the government recognises the important role that NPSs play in the NSIP regime and the need to keep them up-to-date through timely reviews. In its response to the NIC report, the government has agreed with the NIC’s recommendation that there should be at least 5 yearly reviews of NPSs to consider whether amendments to that NPS are necessary at that point in time. The text in the revised NNNPS has been updated to reflect this commitment, with paragraph 1.14 saying: “It will be subject to review by the Secretary of State at least every 5 years or earlier if necessary, in order to ensure that it remains appropriate” The government also recognises the need to ensure that the review process itself is made more flexible and streamlined. The government agrees with the NIC that there needs to be a more effective approach to reviewing NPSs. Through the response to the NIC, the government has committed to commissioning an external review of the current NPS review and designation process, to explore options for reconfiguring the NPS framework. A modular approach to NPSs is likely to form part of this solution but further work is required before the government can commit to this approach. The government also indicated that as part of guidance reviews, we will consider whether NPS review guidance could be updated to set out the changes that could potentially trigger whether a review of an NPS is needed. The Department for Transport is fully engaged with the NSIP reform programme.