The National Networks National Policy Statement ('the NPS') is the first long-term planning document for the Strategic Road Network, railways and Rail Freight Interchanges. We welcome the creation of this NPS, which was originally due to be finalised in 2010, because putting planning policy for major road and rail schemes into one document makes the planning system more efficient and accessible.

Unfortunately the content of the NPS remains of concern and, although there have been a number of changes, these are unlikely to mean many differences in practice to the draft NPS that was published in December 2013.

Our briefing outlines CPRE's priorities for lobbying on this important planning document.