Infrastructure & Major Projects Briefing – Wednesday

July 22, 2026

Fastest infrastructure acceleration in a generation

Major infrastructure reforms continue to reshape the planning system.

• NSIP pre‑application consultation removed Mandatory pre‑application consultation for Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects is being scrapped, cutting up to 12 months from project timelines and saving industry around £1bn.

• Early technical support now standard Over 80 prospective applicants have already used the Planning Inspectorate’s early‑advice service, improving clarity and reducing examination delays.

• Government targeting 150 major decisions this Parliament This is nearly triple the previous period. 41 decisions have already been made since the new government took office.

• 82,000 jobs linked to approved projects Clean energy, transport, water and utilities schemes continue to expand, with significant implications for planners in infrastructure strategy, environmental planning and major projects.

Sector impact Expect faster examinations, clearer timetables and increased demand for planners in energy, transport, water, utilities and environmental infrastructure.

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