17.03.2026
The Government has confirmed its intention to replace the current EIA and SEA regimes by the end of 2027, introducing a new outcomes‑based approach to environmental assessment. With a phased transition and further consultation planned, the reforms will have important implications for developers and plan‑makers preparing projects and strategies over the coming years.
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EIA and SEA are currently required for certain types of development and plans, particularly larger schemes or those affecting environmentally sensitive locations. While these processes play a vital role in the planning system, they have often been criticised for producing highly technical reports running to thousands of pages, making it difficult for communities and decision‑makers to clearly understand the key environmental issues.
The proposed Environmental Outcomes Reports (EOR) system aims to address this by focusing assessment on whether a plan or project supports the delivery of defined environmental outcomes, rather than simply documenting impacts.
Powers to introduce the new regime were included in the Levelling‑up and Regeneration Act 2023, and the Government has now confirmed that implementation will take place by the end of 2027.
Under the new system, Government will set national environmental outcomes through secondary legislation, supported by guidance. These outcomes will reflect wider national environmental priorities and will form the basis against which plans and development proposals are assessed.
The intention is that a more standardised, data‑driven approach will improve clarity and consistency, helping applicants demonstrate how proposals contribute positively to environmental objectives. The Government has indicated that prescribed data standards and templates will be introduced to support this process.
Recognising the scale of change, the Government has committed to a phased transition, including a period where the existing EIA/SEA system and the new EOR regime may operate alongside each other. This is intended to ensure continuity and avoid disruption to live projects.
A further consultation on the detailed regulations is expected, providing an opportunity for stakeholders across the planning and development sector to comment on how the new system will operate in practice.
The shift to an outcomes‑based system has the potential to reduce unnecessary complexity and focus attention on what really matters — delivering measurable environmental benefits. However, the success of the new approach will depend on the clarity of guidance, the availability of skills and resources, and effective monitoring and enforcement.
As further detail emerges, it will be important for developers, local authorities and consultants to understand how transitional arrangements will apply to existing and forthcoming projects.
DHA Planning has extensive experience advising on EIA and environmental assessment strategy across a wide range of development sectors, including complex and sensitive sites. We are closely monitoring the progression of the EOR reforms and will continue to support clients in navigating both the current assessment regime and the transition to the new system.
If you would like to discuss how these changes may affect your project or plan‑making work, please get in touch with Tim Spicer from DHA Planning.
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