Simplifying Infrastructure Consent Regulations in Wales: A 2025 Update

The Welsh Government has introduced a streamlined approach for handling significant infrastructure projects in Wales through the Infrastructure Consent Regulations 2025. This follows the Infrastructure Act of 2024, which laid the groundwork for a unified process for applying and granting infrastructure consents, covering key projects in energy, transportation, waste, and water.

Key Highlights of the Regulations:

1. Unified Application Process:

   • The 2024 Act established a comprehensive application and consent process for major infrastructure projects in Wales.
   • The process applies to significant infrastructure projects as defined in the Act, including energy and transport projects.

2. Designated Examining Authority:

   • A designated authority will examine applications, ensuring they meet procedural requirements.
   • The authority can be a single person or a panel, appointed by Welsh Ministers.

3. Application Examination and Decision-Making:

   • Following application submission, there is a structured examination process.
   • The authority examines applications, seeks additional written comments if necessary, and may hold hearings or local inquiries.
   • Following examination, the authority or Welsh Ministers make a final decision regarding consent.

4. Public Involvement and Transparency:

   • Open floor hearings may be held if requested, allowing the public to participate.
   • All examination procedures, including hearings, will be publicly accessible, with measures to broadcast or record proceedings to ensure transparency.

5. Post-Examination Procedures:

   • After examination, the authority prepares a report and makes recommendations.
   • Decisions can include granting, modifying, or refusing infrastructure consent.

6. Additional Provisions for Compulsory Acquisition:

   • Separate regulations address applications involving compulsory land acquisition.
   • These involve additional procedural steps, ensuring affected parties are notified and can participate in the process.

7. Regulatory Impact Assessment:

   • A Regulatory Impact Assessment has been conducted to evaluate the costs and benefits of these regulations.
   • The assessment aims to ensure that the regulatory framework effectively balances development needs with public and environmental interests.

Implementation Timeline:

• The regulations were made on June 14, 2025, presented to the Senedd on June 17, 2025, and will come into force on December 15, 2025.

Conclusion: The Infrastructure Consent Regulations 2025 aim to create a more efficient and transparent process for handling significant infrastructure projects in Wales, fostering economic development while ensuring public and environmental protection. For further details, the Welsh Government has made resources available online for stakeholders and the public to access comprehensive information on the regulations and their implementation.