Campaign update

CPRE wants to see the planning system play a greater role in guiding development that reduces our energy use and encourages adaptation to climate change. Because planning plays such a vital role in integrating and balancing different priorities, getting the planning framework for climate and energy right is crucial. Recent changes to planning rules incorporate some steps in the right direction, but we feel they could be significantly improved.

National Policy Statements on energy

The Planning Act 2008 creates a new framework for planning for major infrastructure projects. A key aspect of this framework for energy infrastructure is set out in draft National Policy Statements (NPSs) which were consulted on earlier this year. 

CPRE supports the principle of NPSs, but we are extremely concerned that the way in which the draft energy NPSs set out a need for new energy infrastructure and restrict public debate of such infrastructure seriously threatens the character and quality of England's countryside. We'd like to see substantial revisions and much greater public debate before new NPSs are designated.

> CPRE's response to the Deparment for Energy and Climate Change's consultation on energy NPSs (pdf)
> CPRE's evidence to the Energy and Climate Change Committee's inquiry into proposed energy NPSs

Low carbon future Planning Policy Statement

CPRE is a member of the Planning and Climate Change Coalition, which is seeking revisions to government policy on planning for climate change mitigation and adaptation. Key among CPRE's concerns are the promotion of a plan-led system for the delivery of low-carbon infrastructure; the need to see climate change mitigation and adaptation within the framework of sustainable development; ensuring that 'goodwill payments' for new energy infrastructure in the countryside do not undermine fair consideration of environmental issues; and the creation of a technical advice body, which can provide impartial information to planning authorities and people engaged in the planning system.

> Read the Planning and Climate Change Coalition's recommendations (pdf)