[holding answer 14 June 2007]: The planning White Paper, “Planning for a Sustainable Future” proposes a three stage system for nationally significant infrastructure projects, with opportunities for public engagement at each stage.
There would be national consultation on the country’s infrastructure needs. The Government would consult the public on national policy statements, which would be scrutinised by Parliament. Promoters would be required to consult the public before submitting a planning application, allowing local communities to influence a promoter’s proposals early on. At the examination stage, direct questioning and a new open floor stage would help members of the public engage on a more equal footing with the professional advocates who currently dominate the process.