Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, with reference to p. 82 of the document entitled The UK's Modern Industrial Strategy, published on 23 June 2025, what his Department's planned timetable is for launching a call for evidence on the expansion of permitted development rights for electricity distribution network infrastructure.

On 8 July 2025, DESNZ launched a public consultation on consents, land access, and rights for electricity network infrastructure. This consultation includes proposals related to the expansion of permitted development rights for electricity infrastructure, as referenced on page 82 of ‘The UK’s Modern Industrial Strategy.’

This consultation also addresses a range of related matters such as land access rights, tree lopping, permitted development for substations, Section 37 consents, and thresholds for Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects. These broader reforms are intended to streamline the system, reduce burdens, and accelerate network deployment while ensuring appropriate protections for landowners, communities, and the environment.