Chancellor to ‘take an axe’ to judicial delays on major civils projects
Summary
The Chancellor has pledged to extend judicial review restrictions beyond energy schemes to all nationally significant infrastructure projects, with the aim of reducing delays to major developments. The government says judicial review can add significant time to projects, but the proposed changes will require further legislation and implementation.
Why it matters
Major infrastructure delivery affects housing supply, transport connectivity and wider development viability, all of which can influence residential property markets and local regeneration. Surveyors may also see downstream effects on land values, planning timelines and project risk profiles.
Key points
- Judicial review reforms are proposed for all nationally significant infrastructure schemes, not just energy projects.
- The government says judicial review challenges can delay major projects by around 18 months.
- Further legislation will be needed before the reforms take effect.
- The article cites Sizewell C and East West Rail as examples of lengthy challenge and consultation processes.
- A separate review of rail infrastructure costs is due in the coming weeks.
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