Consultation closed at the end of September on proposals to align national planning policy with the Government’s aspiration for Britain’s future as a ‘Clean Energy Superpower’ by 2030. Government has committed to respond before year-end. What Planning changes are proposed for those looking to deliver solar and onshore wind?

Consultation closed in late September on proposals to align national planning policy with the Government’s industrial strategy for key growth industries. Government’s response is awaited. In the meantime, what Planning changes are likely for delivering data centres, gigafactories, laboratories, freight and logistics?

Labour’s landslide victory marks the end of 14 years of Conservative rule and heralds a new era. But once the champagne corks have stopped popping at Labour HQ, the new Government needs to roll up its sleeves fast and steer a stagflation economy onto a path of dynamic growth. Is it time for developers to be optimistic?

This Insight summarises the Planning aspirations of the Conservative, Labour and the Liberal Democrat manifestos for the UK’s 2024 election. Their shared focus is on housing, energy infrastructure and battling climate change. The Conservatives remain committed to the Green Belt and maximising brownfield and densification. Labour proposes new towns and increased use of compulsory purchase, with release of ‘grey’ belt. The Lib Dems focus on more localised strategies. Labour and the Conservatives both propose increases in offshore wind, nuclear and carbon capture, use and storage. Both resist fracking. Labour proposes new Government energy investment institutions. The Conservatives remain wary of onshore wind. The Lib Dems support nature-based solutions to the energy crisis given the imperative to tackle global warming.

In the second Insight in our series on the planning changes in the Levelling Up and Regeneration Bill (the first was on the proposed changes to local plans), we examine the proposed new Infrastructure Levy that will eventually replace the Community Infrastructure Levy, how the two levies compare and how it is expected to work in practice. 

In episode 7 of the podcast Planning Life Insights of Bryan, BCLP explore with London First guest Sarah Bevan and Chris Whall from Air Quality Consultants Ltd the challenges and opportunities for developers bringing forward major schemes in London following the adoption of the new London Plan.

In episode 6 of the podcast Planning Life Insights of Bryan, BCLP explore with Quod guest Matthew Sharpe top tips on amending planning permissions for major regeneration proposals enabling them to move with the market (including the implications of the recent Hillside Parks case).