Welsh wind consenting powers to be handed to ministers

UK: Large infrastructure projects in Wales, such as wind farms, could be decided by Welsh ministers as part of proposals to reform the nation's consenting system.

The 33.6MW Carno wind farm

The plans would cover all energy projects between 25MW and 50MW.

The Welsh government has launched a consultation on the draft legislation that would mean decisions on applications would be decided at a national level rather than by local authorities.

The government said it is particularly concerned about the amount of time taken by local planning authorities to give the go ahead for renewable energy projects.

A study was published earlier this year identifying that such applications comprise some of the most challenging aspects of the consenting system.

Housing and regeneration minister Carl Sargeant said: "We want to reposition planning from regulating development to enabling appropriate development."