Government publishes draft revisions to the NPS for ports

The Department for Transport (DfT) has published a draft of its comprehensive revision to the National Policy Statement for Ports, aimed at accelerating planning applications and supporting expansion of maritime facilities across England.

The original NPS for ports was designated in January 2012. Since then, there have been many economic changes in the economy, leading to structural changes in the needs and priorities for ports infrastructure. At the same time, there have been significant changes in policy, leading also to important legislation, especially in the planning and environmental areas.

The new proposals are designed to provide clearer guidance on meeting planning requirements, particularly regarding noise and emissions obligations. The government says this will reduce delays and costs for port operators intending to expand their facilities.

Under the revised framework, planning decisions will be assessed against economic growth objectives and the UK's clean energy targets. The changes form part of broader planning reforms including the Planning and Infrastructure Bill.

Industry leaders have welcomed the proposals. Richard Ballantyne, Chief Executive of the British Ports Association, said “The ports industry is optimistic about its long term future, with significant growth expected in trade volumes and other sectors such as offshore wind. A refreshed ports policy statement is welcome recognition from Government of the value of port development and expansion to the UK’s future prosperity. We hope it will speed up planning processes, delivering on shared industry and government economic growth ambitions.”

Geraint Evans, Chief Executive of UK Major Ports Group, said, "with the right policy frameworks, major ports can double the levels of private investment – going further and faster."

Public consultation on the draft runs until 29 July 2025