Labour's Planning Bill Targets Housing Crisis and Renewable Energy Expansion

The proposed legislation aims to accelerate infrastructure projects, streamline planning processes, and protect key agricultural land while offering energy bill discounts near new projects.

The Planning and Infrastructure Bill seeks to fast-track over 150 major infrastructure projects, including roads, railways, and renewable energy developments, to meet clean power targets by 2030.
Local councils will gain powers to acquire land for development at market value without paying 'hope value,' prioritizing urban brownfield sites while protecting prime agricultural land.
Households within 500 meters of new or upgraded energy infrastructure could receive annual energy bill discounts of up to £250 for 10 years to offset local impacts.
The bill introduces a Nature Restoration Fund, requiring developers to contribute to broader environmental recovery efforts instead of site-specific mitigation measures.
Critics warn of potential disparities in government support for households and concerns over reduced consultation requirements for planning decisions.