Environmental Outcomes Reports: A new approach to environmental assessment

Overview

Through the Levelling Up and Regeneration Bill, we are seeking to secure powers to implement a new system of environmental assessment to be known as Environmental Outcomes Reports. This will allow the Government to replace the EU-derived Strategic Environmental Assessment and Environmental Impact Assessment processes with a streamlined system that places greater focus on delivering our environmental ambitions. 

The introduction of outcomes-based approach allows the Government to ensure its environmental priorities are directly reflected in decision-making on the plan-making and consenting processes that manage the effects of development activity on the environment. 

This consultation sets out how these powers could be used.

Why your views matter

The feedback from this consultation will be used to progress the development of the new assessment framework.  

In responding to this consultation, we would appreciate comments on any potential impacts on protected groups under the Public Sector Equality Duty.