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New national policy for ports includes a presumption in favour of sustainable development


Subject to parliamentary approval, a new National Policy Statement (NPS) for ports   (76-page / 1.2MB PDF) will be designated by the Secretary of State for Transport in a matter of weeks

The Government recognise that the ports industry has a crucial role to play in the economy and in Written Ministerial Statement, Minister for Transport, Mike Penning acknowledged  that  “The ports industry is a vital contributor to this country's economic recovery and success. Well over 90% of trade by tonnage passes through sea ports, and so the importance of a clear planning framework for their future sustainable development can hardly be overstated”. There is a "compelling need" for additional port capacity over the next 20-30 years.

Penning also said that the policy gives "full prominence to the importance of development in sympathy for the environment".

Once designated, the NPS for ports will provide the framework for decisions by the Infrastructure Planning Commission (IPC) on applications for new port development, including associated road and rail links. .

Publication of the NPS follows a number of public consultation exercises held between 9 November 2009 and 15 January 2010, in addition to stakeholder events and forums.

In its summary of responses to the consultation process, the Government said that there was a need for a "market-led" approach to port development, and a need for additional capacity to enable growth.

The NPS states that ports development should, wherever possible, be "an engine for economic growth" by contributing to local employment and regeneration", and should also "preserve, protect and where possible improve marine and terrestrial biodiversity".

In its summary of responses to the consultations, the Government indicate that appropriate weight has been given to environmental issues and to the positive impacts that new port development can deliver.

"Where a port development affects a protected habitat, and in the absence of alternative solutions, the decision-maker may need to consider whether there are any imperative reasons of overriding public interest (IROPI) in allowing the development to proceed" says the NPS .

On the question of future port development proposals, the Government has said that the absence of any reference to port master plans is a deliberate omission, citing their lack of statutory status. It did add, however, that it would continue encourage the use of port master plans.

The Secretary of State will designate the NPS after a period of 21 parliamentary sitting days has elapsed, or following a debate in the House of Commons if this is called for.

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