A Framework For Success: Streamlining Planning Permissions For Major Infrastructure Projects

How can you simplify the enormously complex process of decommissioning a nuclear power station? By creating a specialised Planning Framework, says expert lawyer, Paul Zyda.

Imagine if you could streamline applying for and obtaining planning permissions for your major infrastructure project. This is exactly what we did in 2006 when we helped Dounreay Site Restoration Limited (DSRL) create their first Dounreay Planning Framework (DPF).

This plan, and the updated version (DPF2), set out the long-term strategy and has now been adopted, saving DSRL time and money. Here, we explain the background and benefits.

Keeping it current

Since we put together the original Framework in 2006, much has changed. DSRL needed to update it to reflect the significant progress in decommissioning and restoring the site. For example, in 2008, the Cavendish Dounreay Partnership (formerly Babcock Dounreay) took over, developing a new master-plan which shortened the decommissioning time.

So in 2013, we created DPF2 with DSRL: an up-to-date overview of the restoration, decommissioning, policy, regulations, and an explanation of the wider context and anticipated developments on site. On 12th February 2014, this master-plan was approved by The Highland Council's Planning, Environment and Development Committee.

Agreed in law

We expect Scottish Ministers will approve the updated Framework in summer 2014 - this means it will be formally adopted in law as Supplementary Planning Guidance to the Highland-wide Local Development Plan. Why is this significant? Because the 'Planning etc. (Scotland) Act 2006' elevated the status of Supplementary Planning Guidance to allow it to be incorporated in the Development Plan - and the Council must consider the Guidance when deciding an application.

DPF2 enables the Council and other stakeholders to work in partnership with DSRL to deliver a robust but flexible planning framework.

In addition, the Scottish Government has produced a draft 'National Planning Policy 3', to be adopted in June 2014, which specifies that the planning framework for decommissioning Dounreay must be kept up to date.

Who benefits from the Framework?

The Framework is mainly used by the planning and development team at Dounreay and by the Council. It helps them make decisions about planning applications and...