Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects and the people and organisations involved in the process
Summary
The article explains the Nationally Significant Infrastructure Project (NSIP) process in England and Wales, including how Development Consent Orders are used for major projects and how applications are examined and decided. It outlines the roles of the applicant, the Planning Inspectorate, the Examining Authority and the Secretary of State, and notes that the process typically takes around 17 months.
Why it matters
NSIPs can involve large-scale development with implications for land use, compulsory acquisition, and associated consents such as listed building consent. Residential property surveyors may encounter these schemes through valuation, due diligence, planning risk assessment, and advice on affected properties.
Key points
- NSIPs are major infrastructure projects that require a Development Consent Order rather than standard planning permission.
- The Planning Inspectorate handles applications on behalf of the Secretary of State and appoints an Examining Authority.
- A DCO can include additional powers such as listed building consent and compulsory acquisition.
- The process is non-statutory guidance but is intended to complement the Planning Act 2008 and related legislation.
- The NSIP process is described as taking around 17 months from submission to decision.
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