The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Transport (Stephen Hammond)
This statement is to inform the House that I am today publishing a consultation on revised policy setting out the role of the strategic road network in enabling economic growth.
The new policy will replace circular 02/2007 planning and the strategic road network, and DFT circular 01/2008 policy on service areas and other roadside facilities on motorways and all-purpose trunk roads in England.
We are consulting on changes that will mean in some cases constraints are removed from local authorities and other local decision makers, when considering proposals for new developments.
In reducing regulation, the updated policy will encourage growth by making it easier for businesses and communities to develop, while at the same time ensuring that the road network continues to operate efficiently.