17/08/10
Green energy projects are among those on hold as utilities and construction sectors seek clarity on government intentions.
The coalition's decision to abolish the Infrastructure Planning Commission in favour of a Major Infrastructure Unit in the Planning Inspectorate is still making waves.
Today the CBI raises concerns about a backlog of planning applications inherited from the last government that is holding up the building of power plants, including those providing renewable energy. The organisation is calling on ministers to deal with outstanding applications within six months
The urgency evidently relates both to a need to make progress towards renewable energy targets, and to a more immediate anxiety about security of supply following the recent publication of authoritative reports claiming that the lights could go out without changes to policy.
But the CBI rightly points to another reason why a streamlined planning policy is important for national economic infrastructure - delays causing stop-and-start developments are a real turn-off for investors.
As Energy Minister Charles Hendry said in June:
"A fast and efficient planning system is critical for facilitating investment in much needed energy infrastructure."
The water industry has a fine record in delivering investment on time and on budget but supports calls for everything to be done to speed up the planning system without disregarding local democracy.
On 28 September Water UK holds an Investing in Infrastructure conference to underline the essential role of investors in securing a healthy environment and a healthy economy. The event will take a pan-utility view of financeability with executives and regulators from all sectors.
For more information please contact:
Water UK Communication
020 7344 1804 (out of hours 07833 450544)
