UK ports policy wins government backing

Department for Transport’s (DfT) updated statement replaces the 2012 version and establishes the planning framework for nationally significant port developments in England and harbour orders.

The British Ports Association (BPA), which contributed evidence during the review, welcomed the revised approach to port policy and decision-making.

“The updated National Policy Statement provides an important framework for decision-making on nationally significant port developments and harbour orders,” the organisation said in a social media post.

“We welcome the Government’s recognition of the vital contribution ports make to the economy and the importance of protecting port infrastructure within broader infrastructure planning.”

The importance of ports

The Government agreed with the Committee that ports are critical to global supply chains and the wider economy.

In the statement it said it would strengthen references protecting ports from conflicting infrastructure projects, improve coordination with inland road and rail networks, reinforce support for shore power and charging infrastructure and clarify planning guidance for future port infrastructure developments.

DfT also confirmed port freight forecasts should remain an indicator of demand rather than a constraint on commercial investment decisions, while future forecasts could expand to include passenger, offshore wind and carbon capture activity.

It also committed to reviewing planning thresholds for port projects and improving awareness among local authorities of ports’ economic importance.

However, ministers stopped short of granting ports ’Critical National Priority’ status, arguing existing planning policy already provides strong support for developments needed to enable nationally significant energy and infrastructure projects.