MP fears turbines wind of change

Jun 3 2008 by William Green, The Journal

Worry over transport upgrades

A CONTROVERSIAL overhaul of the planning process yesterday came under fire from MPs on all sides amid concerns about upgrading transport links.

The Government faces a potential revolt over a new infrastructure planning commission (IPC) – which critics say would allow ministers to force through unpopular motorways, airports and power stations.

Tory former Cabinet minister John Redwood said an unelected quango would be set up despite many people wanting to see a "stronger democratic input".

He added ministers were trying to blame the planning system for transport problems, when they had dithered for 11 years, and expressed concern about the impact of a new community infrastructure levy to pay for key projects.

David Jones, shadow minister for Wales, said roads running between England and either Scotland or Wales would not be covered by the new legislation.

He understood cross-border routes were "particularly contentious", but it was unfair they would not benefit from the streamlined planning procedure.

Labour MP for Leeds, Paul Truswell, warned of a "tremendous amount of concern" and hit out at discussion of the IPC being "compressed" to a two-hour slot next Monday night.

From nuclear plants to airports

A FRESH quango would decide whether new nuclear power stations, airports, roads and incinerators get the go-ahead under Government plans.

The infrastructure planning commission (IPC) would make rulings on projects of "national significance" based on new policy statements drawn up by ministers in a bid to speed up the planning process. Any potential upgrades to the A1 could be sent to the unelected body in the future, with any major work on routes that form part of the strategic national road network going to the IPC.

The agency could also make rulings on new footpaths and cycleways, closely connected to developments on the strategic road network. Applications for planning schemes affecting the national rail network would also be judged.