Chapter 8The Planning System
R37On Track

Equalise the position of the NDA for the benefit of the Geological Disposal Facility

Equalise NDA position for GDF

Full Recommendation Text

The GDF, and associated site investigation development, is given "Critical National Priority" status by MHCLG in both the National Policy Statement, and either the NPPF or National Development Management Policy.

Government propose primary legislation which grants the NDA (and any member of the NDA group) the ability to promote a Compulsory Purchase Order and that the NDA (and any member of the NDA group) is deemed to have statutory undertaker status.

MHCLG amends the GPDO to grant a permitted development right to the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority to carry out surveys similar to the survey powers found in Part 17 Class J and K of Sch 2 of the GPDO.

If the Government accepts the above recommendations DESNZ should confirm that an alternative planning route for the borehole investigations does provide value for money. Our strong expectation is that a DCO is not proportionate for boreholes.

Update Timeline
On Track

Government Response: Strategic approach to GDF planning reform

The Government is taking a strategic approach across all elements of this recommendation. The GDF will receive Critical National Priority status, and primary legislation is being pursued to grant the NDA statutory undertaker status with compulsory purchase powers. New permitted development rights will be introduced via GPDO amendment, and an alternative planning route for deep borehole investigations is being assessed. All actions are targeted for completion by December 2027, aligning with the original Taskforce timeline.

Policy Paper • DESNZ, March 2026
Comprehensive acceptance across all four sub-recommendations with December 2027 delivery target.
Ownership

Primary Owner

MHCLG

Co-owners

DESNZ
Delivery Timeline
31 Dec 27

Taskforce target: December 2027

Scope

Sectors

civil

Domains

planningwaste management
Implementation Type
primary legislationsecondary legislation

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