First recruits for new infrastructure body

Three new commissioners have been appointed to the Infrastructure Planning Commission (IPC).

Canary Wharf Crossrail

Under the Commission's guidance, it is expected that the length of major applications will fall to under a year, saving up to £300m each year.

Jan Bessell, Glyn Roberts and Paul Hudson will ensure the organisation carries out its functions, as set out in the Planning Act 2008. The IPC will streamline the planning process for major infrastructure projects, such as large wind farms, power stations and railways, and the new commissioners will sit on national panels to help create an efficient planning system. This will help Britain meet climate change objectives and compete in the tough global economy.

The IPC will be advising parties to consult local communities effectively and to prepare applications to a high standard. From March 2010, it will receive applications from the energy and transport sectors, and it is expected to carry out its first examinations during the following summer.

IPC Chair Sir Michael Pitt said: “Jan, Glyn and Paul bring with them a wealth of planning and development experience and expertise. Their appointments further strengthens the IPC team, ensuring that we are equipped to deliver to the highest standards from day one.”

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