Planning and Infrastructure Act 2025 extended to Ramsar sites
The Planning and Infrastructure Act 2025 (Commencement No. 3 and Transitional Provisions) Regulations 2026, introduced on 21 May 2026, extend certain requirements under the Act to include Ramsar sites.
Ramsar sites are wetlands of international importance designated under the Ramsar Convention. The changes will ensure that environmental assessment and review requirements also consider the potential impacts on these protected wetland areas, further strengthening environmental safeguards within the planning process.
Consultation on permitted development rights
The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) has launched a consultation on proposed new and amended permitted development rights.
The consultation opened on 10 June 2026 and closes on 5 August 2026.
From an environmental perspective, the consultation considers new permitted development flexibilities designed to support the delivery of conservation measures through Environmental Delivery Plans developed by Natural England as part of the Nature Restoration Fund.
The proposals aim to help facilitate environmental improvements while supporting the implementation of wider nature recovery initiatives.
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