New Welsh Infrastructure Law Set to Transform Planning by December 2025

The Welsh government has taken a significant step forward in planning and infrastructure development with the new Infrastructure (Wales) Act 2024, which comes into full effect on December 15, 2025. This legislation is designed to streamline and enhance the process of obtaining infrastructure consents, aiming to boost economic growth and development across Wales.

Key Elements of the Legislation:

1. Gradual Activation:

   • The Act was partially activated on June 4, 2024, following royal assent, with certain provisions immediately put into effect. These included crucial sections that allow for the creation of regulations and outline permissible actions under these regulations.

2. Full Implementation by December 2025:

   • The remaining provisions of the Act will be activated by December 15, 2025, with exceptions for specific sections related to auditing and legal challenges.

3. Key Provisions Coming into Force:

   • Parts 2 and 3, along with Part 5 and sections 63 to 89, will become operational, focusing on detailed planning procedures and regulatory frameworks.
   • Parts of Section 92 and related segments will start, addressing legal and procedural aspects of altering or revoking infrastructure consents.

4. Exclusions to Note:

   • Certain sections, including those dealing with the appointment of auditing authorities and legal frameworks for challenging orders, are excluded from the December activation.
   • Specific guidance and assistance provisions related to infrastructure consent applications are also deferred.

What This Means for Wales:

The Infrastructure (Wales) Act 2024 is poised to bring about a more efficient and effective planning process, critical for facilitating major infrastructure projects. By December 2025, Wales will have a modern legislative framework that supports strategic economic development, reduces bureaucratic hurdles, and aligns infrastructure planning with contemporary needs.

Rebecca Evans, the Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Energy and Planning, emphasized the transformative potential of this legislation for Wales' economic landscape, marking a pivotal moment for infrastructure development in the region.