Source · Select Committees · Transport Committee
Ninth Report - Draft revised National Policy Statement for National Networks
Transport Committee
HC 903
Published 20 October 2023
Recommendations
1
Accepted
Para 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. …
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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.
Department for Transport
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12
Accepted
Para 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).
Department for Transport
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Conclusions (2)
14
Conclusion
Accepted
Para 70
The NNNPS could be a helpful document when making decisions on transport schemes which are not classed as nationally significant but are still large scale or regionally important. These schemes are currently consented through the Transport and Works Act and receive a less rigorous level of scrutiny.
Government Response Summary
The Department for Transport considers that existing guidance in the revised NNNPS provides sufficient clarity regarding its status in other consenting regimes and that a one size fits all approach would be disproportionate for Transport and Works Act applications.
15
Conclusion
Accepted
The draft revised NNNPS should be amended to include provision which makes it clear how the NNNPS could be a relevant policy consideration for non-NSIP schemes which are currently consented under the Transport and Works Act. (Paragraph 71) Restructuring the National Policy Statements for transport
Government Response Summary
The Department for Transport considers that paragraph 1.9 of the revised NNNPS provides sufficient clarity regarding the status of the NNNPS in other consenting regimes, and that a one size fits all approach would be disproportionate for Transport and Works Act applications.