National infrastructure planning: windfarms, transport links and more

Last updated: 2 July 2025

Planning for national infrastructure in Wales includes two decision-making processes – Developments of National Significance (DNS) and Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects (NSIP). 

Developments of National Significance (DNS) are large infrastructure projects of national importance that are decided by the Welsh Ministers rather than local planning authorities (where consenting is devolved from the UK Government). DNS projects include airports, railways, wind farms and power stations – find a full list in the Regulations.  

The DNS process is managed by Planning & Environment Decisions Wales (PEDW) on behalf of the Welsh Ministers. Full details of all DNS applications can be found on this register published by the Welsh Government.  

There are four main stages in the DNS process: 
 

• Pre-application – the applicant submits a notification of a proposed application to PEDW. Applicants are strongly encouraged to engage with the local planning authority and communities before notification. A formal 6-week pre-application consultation must be carried out by the applicant before they submit an application.  

• Application – the applicant must submit their application to PEDW within 12 months after notification. A 5-week public consultation is then carried out by PEDW. 

• Examination – an inspector appointed by PEDW examines the application and produces a report for the Welsh Ministers, which includes a recommendation to grant or refuse planning permission.  

• Decision – the Welsh Ministers have 12 weeks from receiving the inspector’s report to decide the DNS application. They do not have to agree with the inspector’s recommendation.  

For more detail on each of the above four stages, including when you can participate in the process, take a look at the Welsh Government’s guide to engaging with the DNS process. The guide also includes useful advice on how to make your comments and tips for writing a good representation. 

Larger infrastructure projects, such as certain energy generation projects above 350 megawatts, are decided by the UK Government through the Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects (NSIP) process (where consenting is not devolved).  

The NSIP process is managed by the Planning Inspectorate (PINS), an executive agency of the UK Government. Applications for development consent for NSIPs are submitted to and registered by PINS. Before making an application, the infrastructure developer must consult with the local planning authority and the local community for the area in which the development is proposed. 

NSIP applications are determined by examination, which may be conducted by written representations or a hearing. Once an application is accepted by PINS, a timetable for the  examination process is published. Full details of all NSIP applications can be found on the National Infrastructure Planning website.  

Welsh Parliament – The Planning Series 13 – Developments of National Significance 

Welsh Parliament – The Planning Series 17 – Consenting energy infrastructure 

Welsh Government – Developments of National Significance: a guide to engaging with the process  

National Infrastructure Planning website 

Planning & Environment Decisions Wales (PEDW) - Development of National Significance guidance