The Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI) has described the new Onshore Wind Taskforce Strategy as a major milestone in England’s journey to net zero, and urged ministers to back the strategy with the resources planners need to deliver on its ambitions.
Robbie Calvert, Head of Policy and Public Affairs at the RTPI, said: “The Onshore Wind Taskforce Strategy marks a landmark moment in England’s green transition, and a significant step forward for the planning profession.
“Today, DESNZ has clearly outlined the role that planners will play in delivering the Government’s green energy ambitions and this new generation of onshore wind power, and we welcome the chance to work with the department in providing essential guidance and training to our members.
“However, these roles require senior and experienced planners, at a time when the capabilities of those in these roles are being stretched thin. Strategic planning, new towns, and housing targets continue to pile increased responsibility on our overworked members.
“While new digital planning tools outlined today will help assess and monitor sites, without the planners in place to utilise them, we risk falling far short of the Government’s many ambitions.”
