A new planning process is coming into effect under the Infrastructure (Wales) Act 2024, designed to accelerate planning decisions and make Wales one of the most attractive destinations for investors.
The streamlined process applies to large-scale infrastructure projects, including renewable energy, waste, water, and transport developments, replacing the previous Developments of National Significance and other consenting programmes.
The move follows positive feedback earlier this year from hyperscale data centre operator Vantage, which praised the speed of the planning application process for its multi-billion-pound investment at the former Ford Factory site in Bridgend.
Speaking at the Wales Investment Summit, the Welsh First Minister reaffirmed the ambition to make Wales one of the fastest places in the world for planning decisions, particularly for major infrastructure projects.
To support developers and communities, the Welsh Government has commissioned Grasshopper Communications to produce best practice guidance focused on community engagement and stakeholder consultation. Additional funding has also been provided to Planning Aid Wales to deliver online guidance and community events explaining the changes.
Eluned Morgan, Welsh First Minister, said:
“We have made real reforms to the planning process in Wales, investing more than ever so that the system works better and faster for both businesses and communities.
“When you look at the pace we’re moving at, the talent we’re growing and the partnerships we’re building, a very clear investment story emerges. We have all the building blocks in place, and we are ready to scale quickly – particularly when it comes to frontier sector businesses.”
Nearly £9 million was announced earlier this year to strengthen the capacity of Planning and Environment Decisions Wales, Natural Resources Wales, and the Welsh Government’s Planning Directorate, ensuring faster and more efficient decision-making.
This reform is expected to boost investor confidence, accelerate delivery of critical infrastructure, and support Wales’ ambitions for economic growth and sustainability.
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