Two nuclear power stations and five wind farms to be considered by controversial new planning body

Campaigners fear two new nuclear power stations and five wind farms will go ahead after applications were submitted to a powerful new Government body set up to push through controversial projects.

By Louise Gray, Environment CorrespondentPublished: 7:30AM BST 22 Oct 2009
The Infrastructure Planning Commission (IPC) was formed to speed up the planning process amid fears major developments were getting bogged down in local protests.
Today (Thurs) the IPC announced its first projects including applications from French firm EDF for two new nuclear power stations at Hinkley Point C and Sizewell C as well as five wind farms and a major biomass plant.

However the Campaign to Protect Rural England (CPRE) fear the projects will be railroaded through by the new body without considering local fears.
The IPC was set up earlier this month to look at planning applications for developments "of national importance" such as power stations and roads. Although councils will give evidence and there will be local consultation, the IPC will make the ultimate decision based on plans set out by the Government in National Policy Statements.
Fiona Howie, Head of Planning and Regions at the CPRE, said the Government has already made clear it favours nuclear.
"A huge amount will depend on the [forthcoming] National Policy Statement. If they say yes to nuclear then it will be very very difficult for the IPC to refuse them," she said.
She said the CPRE remain concerned that the IPC will override the opinion of the local community.
"Whilst we recognise national good versus local concerns, our worry is will anyone be able to influence anything once the NPS is set out?" she asked.
But Sir Michael Pitt, Chair of the IPC, emphasised that the public will be able to take part in the process.
"The projects we are highlighting today raise important issues for the nation and for local communities and we want the public to have confidence that their views will be heard. In every case there will be an opportunity for an open floor hearing as part of the IPC examination process."