UK ports urge faster planning reforms

However, the British Ports Association (BPA) says that improved planning is vital if the sector is to realise its potential for growth.

“The ports industry is optimistic about its long-term future, with significant growth expected in trade volumes and other sectors such as offshore wind,” said Richard Ballantyne, chief executive of the British Ports Association.

“A refreshed ports policy statement is welcome recognition from government of the value of port development and expansion to the UK’s future prosperity.

“We hope it will speed up planning processes, delivering on shared industry and government economic growth ambitions.”

The revised NPSP sets the planning framework for major port projects in England under the development consent order (DCO) process, and outlines the government’s recognition of the ‘compelling need for substantial additional port capacity over the next 30 years’.

The update is supported by newly published Department for Transport freight forecasts extending to 2050, highlighting expected increases in trade volumes and port activity.

The NPSP, originally designated in 2012 under the Planning Act 2008, offers essential guidance to applicants and government bodies involved in determining DCO applications for large-scale port infrastructure.

The updated draft is now open for public consultation until 29 July 2025 and will undergo parliamentary scrutiny before final adoption.