The state of play

The panel was preceded by opening remarks from Bill Esterson MP, Chair of the Energy Security and Net Zero Committee. Bill highlighted the necessity to “get on with it and do things with speed”, regarding accelerating infrastructure delivery to meet key national targets.

The Planning and Infrastructure Bill was presented as a means to refine development across the country and making the UK a more attractive destination for infrastructure investment. He also noted that his Committee will soon be publishing their report on a national planning for energy infrastructure inquiry, pulling together different stakeholders’ views on the impact of these proposed policy changes.

Balancing the need for development with environmental protection

The panel, chaired by Jon McLeod, brought together Catherine Howard (Partner, Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer), Jane Cooper (Deputy CEO, RenewableUK), Alexa Culver (General Counsel, RSK Wilding), and Andrew Baker (Managing Director, Baker Consultants). The audience, consisting of various industry representatives, barristers, and political figures, were walked through each panellist’s thoughts on the Bill, before being given the opportunity to present their questions directly to the panellists.

Discussion initially explored the Bill’s ambitions, where panellists were largely in agreement over the need to enhance the planning process to reduce delays that have historically stalled major infrastructure projects. However, considerable attention was given to Part Three of the Bill. Panellists expressed concern over the risks this part poses to weakening environmental safeguards, with particular concern over the powers which may be granted to Natural England.

The need for scientific rigor, regulatory clarity, and proportional environmental assessments was repeatedly emphasised, with a need for the Government to not get too carried away with reducing regulatory tape. This was made in particular reference to the ability for third parties to challenge planning decisions via judicial reviews.

Ultimately, while there was consensus on the importance of delivering infrastructure at pace, the panel urged that it must not come at the expense of environmental integrity, public trust, or democratic accountability.

DRD looks forward to hosting future events with Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer and RenewableUK.