POS Response to proposals for Permitted Development Rights for ground investigations and survey for electricity network infrastructure

03 September 2026

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POS Response to proposals for Permitted Development Rights for ground investigations and survey for electricity network infrastructure 

POS response to proposals to introduce permitted development rights for short term temporary ground investigations for electricity networks has been submitted 3rd September 2026. 

Generally POS supports introducing new Permitted Development Rights to allow temporary, low‑impact ground investigations for electricity network projects, recognising their role in accelerating infrastructure delivery, but emphasises that safeguards are essential. While POS agrees with limits on depth, area, duration, reinstatement, tree protection, and temporary structures—and supports clear archaeological procedures—it raises strong concerns about cumulative impacts, landscape scarring, contamination risks, and the burden of prior notification. POS argues that designated landscapes and heritage sites should be excluded entirely, as even temporary works may cause harm requiring full planning assessment. Overall, POS backs the PDR only if prior notification is removed, designated areas are excluded, and coordination mechanisms are introduced to prevent repeated or concentrated investigations.