06.01.2026
The Government has brought into force a new National Policy Statement for nuclear power (EN-7), introducing important changes to how new nuclear projects will be assessed under the NSIP regime. Our latest article sets out what this means for developers and landowners.
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The new policy, EN-7, replaces the previous nuclear power NPS (EN-6), which was designated in July 2011. EN-7 forms a key part of the planning regime for Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects (NSIPs) under the Planning Act 2008 and will now be used to assess applications for development consent for new nuclear power stations.
Alongside the new policy statement, the Department has also published guidance for practitioners, providing further detail on how the policy should be interpreted and applied.
EN-7 applies to proposals for nuclear power stations with a generating capacity of:
Over 50MW in England, and
Over 350MW in Wales.
The policy introduces several important changes to the previous framework.
Support for new nuclear technologies
The new policy explicitly supports the development of small modular reactors (SMRs) and advanced modular reactors, alongside traditional large-scale nuclear power stations. This reflects the Government’s wider energy strategy and recognition of emerging nuclear technologies.
Removal of site restrictions
Under EN-6, new nuclear power stations were limited to eight pre-designated sites and required to come forward before 2025. EN-7 removes both of these constraints, allowing developers to propose their own sites, which will then be assessed on their individual merits.
Clear locational criteria
Rather than a fixed list of sites, EN-7 introduces a set of locational criteria that proposals must meet. In particular, new nuclear power stations should be located:
Away from areas of high population density, and
Away from areas with proximity to military activity.
The accompanying guidance makes clear that these criteria should be considered at the earliest possible stage and for all potential sites under consideration. Where these requirements are not met, the relevant statutory consultee may recommend that development consent is refused.
The introduction of EN-7 provides greater flexibility and opportunity for nuclear development, particularly for promoters of SMRs and advanced technologies. However, it also places increased emphasis on early site selection, robust evidence, and upfront engagement to demonstrate compliance with the new locational and policy requirements.
Given the scale and complexity of nuclear NSIPs, early planning advice will be critical to navigating the new policy framework successfully.
DHA Planning Group has extensive experience advising on complex infrastructure and energy-related planning matters. We can assist developers and landowners in:
Interpreting the new EN-7 policy framework;
Identifying and assessing potential sites;
Supporting early-stage strategy and evidence preparation; and
Advising on NSIP consenting processes.
If you would like to discuss how the new nuclear power NPS may affect your project or land interests, please get in touch with DHA's David Harvey.
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