Unlocking the UK's Infrastructure Potential: Navigating the Planning and Infrastructure Bill

The UK faces a critical challenge: accelerating infrastructure development to meet ambitious Net Zero targets and drive economic growth. The Planning and Infrastructure Bill, currently moving through Parliament, promises to reshape the landscape for Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects (NSIPs), offering both opportunities and complexities for project promoters; with the intent to supercharge infrastructure development.

The Challenge and The Opportunity

The current system, while well-intentioned, has often been criticised for lengthy timelines and complex procedures, hindering investment and delaying crucial projects. This Bill aims to address these challenges, streamlining the process for obtaining Development Consent Orders (DCOs) – the crucial approvals needed for NSIPs. However, navigating these changes effectively will require expert guidance.

NSIPs encompass a wide range of critical infrastructure, from transport and energy networks to essential utilities, business and commercial developments (such as university campuses, logistics hubs, and freight facilities), and increasingly new infrastructure that is recognised as falling into this critical category, such as data centres.

How Deloitte Can Help

Deloitte's deep experience in DCOs positions us to help clients capitalise on the opportunities presented by the Bill. We understand the intricacies of the proposed reforms, including:

• National Policy Statements (NPS): We help clients align their projects with evolving NPS requirements, engaging in government consultations, ensuring compliance and maximising the chances of approval.
• Consultation Reforms: We guide clients through the new consultation processes proposed, ensuring meaningful engagement with stakeholders while optimising efficiency.
• Review of Acceptance: We assist clients in preparing robust applications that meet the new "suitable to proceed to examination" criteria, minimising delays and maximising the likelihood of a smooth transition to the examination phase.

Deloitte’s expertise extends beyond the Bill itself. We provide comprehensive support across all aspects of NSIP development, including:

• Consenting Strategy: Developing a tailored strategy to navigate the entire DCO process for your proposals.
• Land Strategy: Securing the necessary land rights efficiently and effectively to realise your project ambitions.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Building strong relationships with key stakeholders to ensure project success.
• Policy and Guidance: Staying ahead of emerging policy and guidance from government departments such as DESNZ, MHCLG, and DEFRA.

Download our DCO Insights pack for a deeper dive into the Planning and Infrastructure Bill and how Deloitte can help you navigate this evolving landscape.

Ready to discuss your specific project needs? Contact our team of experts: