Timeline
What is a Nationally Significant Infrastructure Project (NSIP)?
Castle Way Energy will be classified as a Nationally Significant Infrastructure Project (NSIP) under the Planning Act (2008) because it would generate more than 100 megawatts (MW) of power.
NSIPs apply for planning permission through the Development Consent Order (DCO) process. DCO applications are subject to detailed scrutiny by an independent panel of inspectors appointed by the Planning Inspectorate (PINS), before the final decision about whether or not to grant planning consent is determined by the Secretary of State. Although the local planning authority doesn’t decide whether or not to approve the application, they are a key consultee involved throughout the DCO process and in helping to shape the final decision.
For more information on the DCO application process, please visit the Planning Inspectorate’s website here:
Project timeline
Early engagement and consultation
from March 2026
Brockwell Energy will shortly begin our early engagement with landowners, neighbours, residents and other community and business stakeholders to share our initial plans and to gather early feedback.
Statutory consultation
Late 2026
After considering the early feedback received and the findings of further technical assessments, we will present our refined proposals to the local community and other stakeholders as part of a formal public consultation.
Application submission
Summer 2027
We will submit our DCO application to the PINS who will determine whether or not to accept our application for Examination.
Pre-examination
Late 2027
Once our application is accepted, members of the public can register as an ‘Interested Party’ and take part in the Examination process, including by submitting written and/or oral comments. An independent panel will be appointed to carry out an Examination of our application.
Examination
Early 2028
The panel will examine our application. This includes holding public examination hearings which Interested Parties i.e. members of the community can attend.
Recommendation
Late 2028
The independent panel will prepare a report for the Secretary of State, which will include a recommendation about whether to approve our DCO application or not.
Decision
Early 2029
The Secretary of State will have the final decision on whether to approve our application.
Construction
2029 onwards
If our DCO application is approved, we will then begin to build the project.
