The process for Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects (NSIPs)
Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects are submitted to the Planning Inspectorate. We are the government agency who examine the proposal.
Anyone can get involved including:
- applicants
- members of the public
- statutory bodies
- charities
- local authorities
An applicant submits an application for a development consent order to the Planning Inspectorate. These can be developments like:
- offshore wind farms
- power stations and electric lines
- motorways and other major roads
- railways
- gas pipelines
We appoint independent inspectors to examine application and make recommendations to the relevant Secretary of State about whether permission for development should be given.
The relevant Secretary of State makes the final decision.
There are several stages in the process for considering whether a national infrastructure project should be given consent. The whole process can take around 18 months.
Guide for people or organisations who want to have their say
Members of the public can get involved in early consultations before an application has been submitted by contacting the applicant directly.
Alternatively you can register to have your say on this website during the pre-examination stage.
There is a guide with information for people or organisations who want to have their say about a national infrastructure project.