Universal UK?

[sonoma15]

Have they specifically talked about passing legislation that would negate the local planning process? Or is this just financial incentives?

Not too sure, but they have been having planning talks with the local government behind the scenes and will continue to do so.

 

[lazyboy97o]

Not too sure, but they have been having planning talks with the local government behind the scenes and will continue to do so.

Planning talks are not planning approval, which is a very specific and very open process in England.

 

[Gusey]

Planning talks are not planning approval, which is a very specific and very open process in England.

Last we've heard was that both local council and the UK government are behind the project, and that the park is set to be approved by the end of the month, although it won't be mentioned in the same speech alongside Heathrow's 3rd runway etc. It will be down to Universal to announce it. The UK government has also announced plans for improved infrastructure in that area, particularly a new train link between Oxford and Bedford

 

[cjkeating]

Have they specifically talked about passing legislation that would negate the local planning process? Or is this just financial incentives?

There is very little in the public domain about what has actually been discussed between Universal and the Government (because, why does there need to be right now?) but when it was first announced there was talk from the previous Government that this would be treated as a 'Project of National Importance' or something to that regard which means it bypasses the local planning applicaiton stage. The benefit of this is whilst it may take longer is that assuming the local planning application is approved chances are it gets appealed at then gets reffered to a national planning level so in effect it is skipping the appeal step. Not that NIMBY's couldn't take the decision to the High Court etc. but so far it seems like the local area is mostly supportive and there aren't huge red flags that could be grounds for a realistic appeal.

 

[Gusey]

 

[Ag11gani]

Have they specifically talked about passing legislation that would negate the local planning process? Or is this just financial incentives?

Specific legislation would not be required, central government (or rather the Secretary of State) can “call in” any planning application and approve (or reject) it themselves. The Secretary of State’s decision can be subject to judicial review, however.