MPs asked to halt threat to low carbon future26 January 2010
Friends of the Earth is calling on MPs to make sure the Government's new plans for the construction of big projects are properly consulted on.
These projects will have a huge impact on our future carbon emissions.
The new planning system
The new planning system starts on 1 March 2010. This will be for major infrastructure projects such as:
A new Infrastructure Planning Commission (IPC) will take decisions previously made by the Secretary of State. They have no democratic accountability.
Decisions of the IPC will be mostly determined by National Policy Statements (NPS), which have already been written.
This means that most issues will not be open to discussion by the public.
There will be a new public examination system with:
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A limited open floor hearing
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No public right to bring witnesses
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No public right to conduct cross-examination
How does the new system work?
NPSs are used to set out how these major projects will develop. They were published by the Government in November 2009, including for:
- Fossil fuels
- Renewable energy
- Gas and Electricity networks
When an application for a major project is brought forward, the developer will run a pre-application consultation.
If the application is accepted, the Commission will hold an inquiry.
You can request an open floor hearing, although you will have to apply in writing.
What colour do you want the gates?
You cannot question the need for a project or its safety at the inquiry, as these issues will be decided in the National Policy Statement.
You can only bring witnesses if the Commissioner decides to let you.
You won't be able to ask questions of the developer unless the Commissioner decides. You can only discuss local impacts.
Take action
We believe that the consultation process is a vital part of developing National Policy Statements. You should be allowed to contribute and be heard.
Please ask your MP to support the EDM which is calling for the Government to rethink its consultation process in line with commitments made last year.
You can also take part in the Department of Energy and Climate Change Consultation - find out more about the National Policy Statements and have your say about the new process.
© Ian Homer
