Transport Committee invites port planning feedback

The NPSP guides applicants seeking development consent orders for nationally significant port developments and also shapes the criteria used by the Transport Secretary in approving or rejecting applications. First introduced in 2012, this marks the first proposed revision in over a decade.

Committee chair Ruth Cadbury MP highlighted the importance of modernising the framework to reflect evolving needs. “Industries of all kinds rely on the smooth and efficient movement of freight in and out of our country’s ports,” she said.

“The new NPSP must strike a balance between enabling capacity growth, supporting cleaner fuel use and safeguarding the environment.”

Cadbury emphasised the need for clarity, minimal regulatory burdens and support for Britain’s competitiveness. “We invite experts from the maritime sector and planning community to help us scrutinise the proposals,” she said.

READ MORE: UK proposes streamlined port planning

The Committee is now calling for written evidence by Monday 1 August 2025, addressing a wide range of issues including the clarity and effectiveness of the revised NPSP, environmental sustainability, community impact and alignment with broader national policies.

Specific areas under review include how the proposed policy interacts with energy and transport infrastructure plans, and whether it reflects realistic freight demand forecasts.

The inquiry can be found at the UK Parliament website.