11 Mar 2025

The Planning and Infrastructure Bill aims to expedite planning decisions for over 150 major infrastructure projects within the current parliamentary term. While the government has not publicly disclosed a definitive list of these projects, several high-profile initiatives are likely to benefit from the proposed reforms. Based on recent announcements and strategic priorities, the following projects are among those expected to see accelerated progress:

  1. Lower Thames Crossing: A new road tunnel beneath the River Thames to alleviate congestion and improve connectivity between Essex and Kent.
  2. HS2 Extensions: Continuation of the High-Speed 2 rail network, including the extension to Euston Station in central London, enhancing rail capacity and reducing travel times between major cities.
  3. Northern Powerhouse Rail: A major rail project aimed at improving east-west connections across the North of England, linking cities like Liverpool, Manchester, Leeds, and Newcastle.
  4. Transpennine Route Upgrade: Enhancements to the rail line connecting Manchester and Leeds, focusing on electrification and increased capacity.
  5. East-West Rail (Oxford-Cambridge): Re-establishment of a direct rail link between Oxford and Cambridge to support economic growth in the region.
  6. Sizewell C Nuclear Power Plant: A new nuclear power station in Suffolk, contributing to the UK’s low-carbon energy goals.
  7. Reservoir Construction Projects: Development of new reservoirs to secure water supplies amid climate change challenges.
  8. Heathrow Airport Expansion: Plans for a new runway to increase airport capacity and enhance international connectivity.
  9. Offshore Wind Farms: Large-scale wind energy projects to boost renewable energy production and support the UK’s net-zero targets.
  10. Solar Energy Farms: Significant solar installations to diversify the renewable energy mix.
  11. Hydrogen Production Facilities: Establishment of hydrogen hubs to support clean energy transitions in various industries.
  12. Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure: Expansion of EV charging networks to support the growing adoption of electric vehicles.
  13. Long Duration Electricity Storage (LDES) Projects: Initiatives to enhance energy storage capabilities, ensuring grid stability and efficient renewable energy use.
  14. Hospital Rebuilding Programs: Modernization of healthcare facilities to improve patient care and service delivery.
  15. School Infrastructure Upgrades: Investments in educational facilities to accommodate growing student populations and enhance learning environments.
  16. Flood Risk Management Schemes: Projects aimed at enhancing flood defenses to protect communities and critical infrastructure.
  17. Digital Infrastructure Enhancements: Initiatives to expand high-speed broadband and 5G networks across the UK.
  18. Waste Management Facilities: Development of advanced waste processing and recycling centers to support environmental sustainability.
  19. Port Infrastructure Improvements: Upgrades to port facilities to boost trade and economic growth.
  20. Airport Modernization Projects: Enhancements to regional airports to improve passenger experience and operational efficiency.
  21. Motorway Upgrades: Widening and smart technology integration on major motorways to reduce congestion and improve safety.
  22. Urban Transit Systems: Development of tram and metro systems in cities to reduce urban congestion and promote public transport.
  23. Green Belt Housing Developments: Strategic housing projects within green belt areas to address housing shortages while maintaining environmental considerations.
  24. Smart City Initiatives: Projects integrating technology to improve urban living conditions and resource management.
  25. High-Speed Broadband Rollout: Nationwide initiatives to ensure all regions have access to fast and reliable internet services.