UK government relaxes rules for wind farm construction in England, currently de facto impossible

The UK government has unveiled changes to the rules for approving the construction of new wind farms in England, aimed at speeding up their development. Although onshore wind farm construction is not explicitly banned in England, a change to the rules in 2014 made it almost impossible to build new turbines, since a single objection from local residents can block the planning process. That is now set to change, although construction will only be allowed in specifically designated areas.

The UK government unveiled changes to the National Planning Policy Framework on Tuesday, intended to pave the way for new wind farms in England. Projects must, however, demonstrate public support.

The construction of new onshore wind farms has been effectively impossible in England since 2015, since the planning process can be blocked if even one local resident objects. According to The Guardian, just 20 wind turbines have been approved for construction in England since the previous change to planning policy.