Source · Select Committees · Transport Committee
Recommendation 12
12
Accepted
Paragraph: 60
Amend draft NNNPS to clarify 'associated development' for NSIPs with examples.
Recommendation
The Government should amend the draft revised NNNPS to clarify, by way of providing a list of examples, what would normally be deemed to be ‘associated development’ for schemes which meet the threshold for nationally significant infrastructure.
Government Response Summary
The government refers to existing guidance from DLUHC on associated development and believes it provides sufficient illustrative examples, and notes the draft revised NNNPS included new text recognizing the strategic importance of providing appropriate lorry parking facilities and requires applicants to consider lorry parking needs (including at SRFIs).
Paragraph Reference:
60
Government Response
Accepted
HM Government
Accepted
The Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (DLUHC) has produced guidance on associated development7. It includes a clear set of principles as to whether something may be associated development or not and a list of examples of both general development but also infrastructure specific associated development. The guidance is clear that it is for the Secretary of State to decide on a case-by-case basis whether or not development should be treated as associated development. We consider that this guidance provides sufficient illustrative examples of what associated development might include and do not believe it warrants repetition in the revised NNNPS. The Department for Transport notes that the discussion around associated development related to lorry parking in particular. The government recognises the important contribution that HGV drivers make to the nation, the economy, and business. It is essential that hauliers have access to appropriate roadside facilities to continue their crucial role in transporting essential items across the country. The draft revised NNNPS included new text recognising the strategic importance of providing appropriate lorry parking facilities and requires applicants to consider lorry parking needs (including at SRFIs). Lorry parking is listed as one of the examples of associated development in the DLUHC guidance. As set out above, the government is currently analysing responses to its call for evidence on freight and the planning system (which included a question on what more local plans and decisions could do to facilitate the supply of high-quality HGV parking and driver facilities).