Springwell is classed as a Nationally Significant Infrastructure Project (NSIP) because it would have a generating capacity above 50 megawatts (50MW). This means we need to apply for a type of planning consent called a Development Consent Order (DCO) to build and operate it.
We consulted on our updated proposals for Springwell between 11 January and 22 February 2024. This consultation was a ‘statutory consultation’ as it was carried out in line with the formal requirements of the Planning Act 2008.
The feedback received, along with further technical work and environmental studies, will inform the development of Springwell before we submit our DCO application to the Planning Inspectorate.
The Planning Inspectorate will then review and examine the application, including encouraging submission of views from local people and other interested parties, before making a recommendation to the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, who will make the final decision on whether or not to grant consent.
For more information about the planning process, please visit the Planning Inspectorate website here:
https://national-infrastructure-consenting.planninginspectorate.gov.uk/