Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, if he will give communities the ability to express opposition to hosting grid infrastructure.

For England and Wales, the Planning Act 2008 requires developers to show they have effectively engaged with communities, considering and incorporating feedback. This includes a requirement on developers to demonstrate that they have consulted adequately with communities before they submit applications for consent. In Scotland, the Scottish Government’s good practice guidance sets out the expectations and requirements for consultation.