Reforms to England’s planning system were announced on 27th March with the release of the new National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF). This 50 page document heralds changes which come into force immediately. The framework has been controversial for its ‘presumption in favour of sustainable development’ which many conservation and environmental groups fear will unleash a ‘building free-for-all’ in the countryside. However, the Government are keen to stress that the new framework is key to our economic growth and that inappropriate development will not be allowed.
With specific regard to renewable energy development, the NPPF appears to be a positive step forward and states that planning applications for such development should be approved if its impacts are, or can be made, acceptable, as was the case with PPS22: Renewable Energy, which the NPPF replaces, Local Planning Authorities should not require applicants for energy development to demonstrate the overall need for renewable or low carbon energy and should recognise that even small-scale projects provide a valuable contribution to cutting greenhouse gas emissions. The retention of this statement is excellent news for anybody considering a small or medium scale renewable energy installation.
The NPPF places an emphasis on local planning and the desire to engage communities in the planning system. All LPA’s will be required to have their own positive strategy to promote renewable energy from renewable sources and should consider identifying suitable areas for such development. LPA’s should aim to design their policies to maximise renewable and low carbon energy development while ensuring that adverse impacts are addressed satisfactorily.
A review of national and local planning policy forms the basis of a Myriad CEG Planning Application. As such, our Consultancy Team is well versed in how these reforms will impact renewable energy development proposals in England. To find out how the Myriad CEG Consultancy Team can obtain planning and grid connection approval for your project, please click http://www.myriadceg.com/wind/consultancy/planning-services/