Update

R24Improve CNP application
Progress
Government Response: CNP strengthened in NPS but NPPF weaker

The Critical National Priority has been strengthened in EN-1 and EN-7, which are already in force and broadly in line with the Taskforce's recommendations. However, the NPPF side is materially weaker: the Government offers only "substantial weight" and a "permanent tilt" rather than the full CNP presumption the Taskforce recommended. There is no commitment to a statutory National Development Management Policy for nuclear development below 50 MWe. The Government is responding to the NPPF consultation in Summer 2026, leaving scope for improvement but current commitments fall short.

govt_response
Source: Policy PaperDESNZ, March 2026

Impact on Overall Status

Status changed to: Nearly
Confidence changed to: medium
EN-1/EN-7 strengthened as recommended but NPPF commitment materially weaker; no statutory NDMP for sub-50MW.
Recommendation Context
Chapter: Chapter 8: The Planning System
Owner: DESNZ
Current Status: Nearly
View full recommendation

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Government Response: CNP strengthened in NPS but NPPF weaker | R24 | Nuclear Taskforce Tracker