Residents living near newly constructed electricity pylons are expected to receive significant reductions on their annual bills as part of a revamp of planning regulations. Housing and planning minister Alex Norris emphasized the importance of communities benefiting from the UK’s transition to clean energy, stating that those hosting essential infrastructure should be compensated for their contributions. A commitment has been made to provide a £250 yearly discount to individuals residing within a half-kilometer radius of new or upgraded pylons and above-ground transmission cables. This initiative, funded by energy companies, may also be expanded to cover other projects such as onshore wind farms.
Mr. Norris highlighted the challenges posed by the numerous organizations involved in the planning approval process, causing delays in decision-making. The implementation of the Planning and Infrastructure Bill aims to expedite major infrastructure projects like new roads, bypasses, railway lines, and trams. Proposed changes to legislation will streamline delivery processes and reduce bureaucratic hurdles, with amendments to the Highways Act granting new powers to facilitate land negotiations for infrastructure development. Reforms to the Transport and Works Act will introduce strict deadlines for decision-making, ultimately boosting the economy, creating jobs, and enhancing transportation efficiency. The government is committed to fast-tracking planning decisions on over 150 key infrastructure projects during this parliamentary term.