Planning applications for Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects consultation with HSE

The Infrastructure Planning Commission (IPC) was set up in 2009 and became operational from 1st March 2010. It is an independent body which will make decisions on planning applications for Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects (NSIPs) in England and Wales.

These projects are large-scale facilities that support the UK economy and are vital public services. They fall within five general fields ie energy, transport, water, waste-water and waste, examples include railways and major roads, large wind farms, power stations, reservoirs, harbours, airports and sewage treatment works. If you require clarity on what constitutes an NSIP you should contact the IPC, telephone number - 0303 444 5000.

The IPC operates in England and Wales. In Wales the IPC will examine applications for energy and harbour development subject to detailed provisions in the Act, other matters are for Welsh Ministers.

In Scotland, the IPC will examine applications for cross-country pipelines where one-end is in Scotland and the other in England or Wales (except by gas transporters); all other matters are for the Scottish Government.

HSE is a statutory consultee for all NSIPs in England and Wales. Both the promoter of a NSIP and the IPC have a statutory duty to consult HSE. HSE has set up an e-mail account NSIP.applications@hse.gsi.gov.uk for the receipt of planning applications for NSIPs. Queries regarding consultation with HSE at the pre-application stage can also be sent to this account.