UK planning framework backs clean energy and water infrastructure

The UK Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government has published Chapter 10 of the National Planning Policy Framework on securing clean energy and water infrastructure.

• The chapter sets planning policy for England and says development plans should be informed by early engagement with utility providers, regulators and network operators to understand energy, water, drainage and wastewater capacity.
• It gives substantial weight to renewable and low carbon energy, electricity network infrastructure, and water infrastructure, and says applicants should not be required to demonstrate need for renewable, low-carbon, or water infrastructure proposals.