Advice to Janet Roberts-Lewis

Enquiry

• From: Janet Roberts-Lewis
• Date advice given: 9 May 2012
• Enquiry type: Email

Thank you for your reply [dated 4 May 2012].

I wonder if you are able to tell me whether the local authority is still reponsible for determining in the case in question as the area concerned is the extensive area of Swansea Bay as opposed to being a land based development. It is however nearby and has the potential to affect significant numbers of local population.

Thank you again

Advice given

Further to our previous email; The National Infrastructure Directorate of the Planning Inspectorate deals with Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects (NSIPs), as defined in section 14 of the Planning Act 2008 as amended [“the Act”]. Gas extraction, whether offshore or onshore, does not currently fall under the definition in section 14 of the Act.

From the information you have provided, and given the nature of the development, we are not in a position to confirm whether or not the development is within the Local Planning Authority's (LPA) jurisdiction. It may be most appropriate for you to contact the LPA and seek advice from them directly.

You may also find that the Department of Energy and Climate Change (DECC) may be able to answer your queries. DECC's licensing system covers oil and gas within Great Britain, its territorial sea and on the UK Continental Shelf.

Finally, the Welsh Government's Marine Consent Unit may be able to provide you with further advice.

Please note our disclaimer at the bottom of this email that the above does not constitute legal advice on which you can rely

If you have any further queries, please do not hesitate to contact our helpline on the number below [0303 444 5000].