Update on the Planning & Infrastructure Bill
28 November 2025Chris Rogers, Associate Surveyor at Dalcour Maclaren, explains how the Planning & Infrastructure Bill is not just a legislative update, but a fundamental shift in how we deliver infrastructure and environmental improvements for our clients.
The Government Planning & Infrastructure Bill is on course to receive Royal Assent before the end of the year. This landmark legislation introduces several major reforms that will shape planning and infrastructure delivery across the UK.
What is being proposed in the Bill?
1. Faster planning & infrastructure delivery
- A streamlined consenting process for Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects (NSIPs), reducing consultation requirements and limiting judicial review.
- 150 major infrastructure decisions to be fast-tracked before the end of Parliament.
2. Housing targets & strategic planning
- Support for the Government’s pledge to build 1.5 million homes by 2029.
- Introducing spatial development strategies for cross-boundary planning and nature recovery.
3. Compulsory Purchase Order (CPO) reform
- Expanded powers for local authorities to acquire land for housing and infrastructure.
- Removal of 'hope value' from compensation, making land acquisition more viable for affordable housing.
4. Nature & environmental changes
- Creation of a Nature Restoration Fund, enabling developers to pay into habitat restoration schemes.
- Streamlined role for Natural England to focus on high-risk cases.
5. Ministerial powers & local democracy
- New power for ministers to issue 'holding directions', preventing councils from refusing applications while national determination is considered (critics warn this could reduce local accountability).
6. Infrastructure & energy
- Unlocking of up to 3GW of onshore wind by simplifying renewable energy planning.
- Speeding up approvals for reservoirs and water projects.
7. Planning fees & resources
- Local authorities can set their own planning fees, reinvesting revenue to improve capacity and reduce delays.
My conclusions
The Planning & Infrastructure Bill represents one of the most significant shifts in UK planning policy in recent years. For our clients, the implications are clear: faster consenting for major projects, greater certainty in land acquisition through the removal of ‘hope value’ and streamlined processes that could accelerate delivery timelines.
These changes create opportunities but also require careful navigation as statutory guidance emerges. Staying proactive and informed will be essential to capitalise on these developments and manage potential risks. At DM, we are here to support our clients to do just that.
Get in touch with me
Don't miss out on the latest DM Insights
Sign up to our DM Insights Newsletter to get the latest updates sent directly to your inbox.
