The countryside charity CPRE, in collaboration with the Aldersgate Group and RenewableUK, has released a new report detailing urgent recommendations for reforming the UK’s planning system. As we work towards achieving the government’s ambitious 2030 clean power and 2050 net-zero targets, the need for effective and timely deployment of renewable energy and grid infrastructure has never been more critical. However, the current planning system is facing significant challenges, which are slowing down this much-needed progress.

The report, titled Electric Dreams: How the Planning System Can Help Deliver the UK’s Low-Carbon Energy, outlines practical steps to streamline the planning process for onshore Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects (NSIPs), which include essential energy and grid projects. CPRE is calling for reforms that not only accelerate the delivery of renewable energy but also ensure that the UK’s cherished landscapes are safeguarded and that local communities are given a real voice in shaping their energy future.

Key Recommendations:

A Nationwide Public Campaign: The report recommends that the government lead a nationwide public campaign to build support for renewable energy projects. By engaging with businesses, NGOs, and other stakeholders, the campaign would highlight the far-reaching benefits of clean energy and win the support of local communities. Public participation and transparency are key to fostering trust and ensuring that the delivery of new infrastructure has the backing of the public.

The Strategic Spatial Energy Plan: A central proposal is the creation of a Strategic Spatial Energy Plan (SSEP), which would address planning challenges from the outset, particularly those related to environmental protection. The SSEP would aim to better coordinate energy projects, reducing conflicts and ensuring that environmental and landscape concerns are front-loaded into decision-making processes.

Improved Community Engagement: One of the report’s most important points is putting communities at the heart of the planning process. It stresses the need for more robust early engagement, where local concerns are heard and addressed. CPRE’s CEO, Roger Mortlock, states, “Democracy should not be the victim in the delivery of net zero, nor should we settle for bargain basement solutions. Delivery of new infrastructure will be vastly improved if we listen to people’s concerns and take them with us.” Engaging communities early will help build trust, reduce opposition, and increase local support for renewable projects.

Efficient Planning Processes: To avoid delays and uncertainty, the report calls for improvements in the efficiency of the NSIP process. This includes better resourcing of statutory consultees such as Natural England and local authorities, as well as encouraging the use of innovative technologies to improve the environmental impact assessment process.

Balancing Land Use and Environmental Protection: The report also highlights the need for a more balanced approach to land use. The government is urged to consider energy infrastructure alongside housing, farming, and nature recovery, rather than treating each land use as separate and disconnected. This would allow for more integrated solutions that meet the needs of both people and the environment.

CPRE’s work has always been about ensuring that the countryside is valued and protected while also enabling the necessary changes to meet the challenges of climate change. Roger Mortlock concludes, “The planning system can accelerate our journey to net zero and find solutions that work for people and the landscapes they love.”

To learn more about the full report and how these recommendations can help improve the planning system, read the full report here.