Chapter 8The Planning System
R32On Track

Encourage fleet approaches in National Policy Statement EN-7

Encourage fleet approaches in EN-7

Full Recommendation Text

DESNZ should amend EN-7 to include a statement that where adverse effects arise as a result of the adoption of a fleet approach, the adverse impact will not be a basis for refusal unless exceptional circumstances apply. It is critical that this position is not diluted through additional hurdles.

The policy should expressly state that there is very large weight to be attached to the policy of standardisation. The test should make clear that if an adverse impact results from an approach already accepted in a previous application the "starting points" in relation to the CNP should also apply.

Update Timeline
On Track

Government Response: Fleet criterion for EN-7 confirmed

The Government will introduce a fleet criterion in the next EN-7 update, favouring impact mitigations that do not require functional design changes. This directly supports the Taskforce's vision for standardised fleet deployment of reactor designs. The updated EN-7 will be published for consultation as soon as practicable, with all EN-7 updates to be completed within 12 months. This is a clear acceptance that fleet approaches should be embedded in national planning policy for nuclear.

Deadline moved31 Dec 2631 Mar 27
Policy Paper • DESNZ, March 2026
Fleet criterion confirmed for next EN-7 update, consultation as soon as practicable.
Ownership

Primary Owner

DESNZ

Co-owners

MHCLG

Key Regulators

Planning Inspectorate
Delivery Timeline
31 Dec 2631 Mar 27
Original Taskforce deadline

December 2026

Notes: Govt response: All EN-7 updates within 12 months (from March 2026)

Scope

Sectors

civil

Domains

planningpolicy
Implementation Type
policy

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