Development Consent Order Application

What Is a Development Consent Order?

Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects (NSIPs) such as major energy facilities are consented through a process administered by the Planning Inspectorate on behalf of the Secretary of State. The DCO grants all the permissions needed to build and operate the project in a single decision.

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National Process

Large energy projects fall under the Planning Act 2008 and are examined centrally, ensuring a consistent and thorough approach to assessment and decision-making.

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Single Consent

The DCO replaces the need for separate planning permissions and other consents, providing clarity and certainty for the project and affected parties.

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Independent Examination

An appointed Examining Authority considers written and oral evidence from the applicant, statutory consultees and members of the public before making a recommendation.

The Process

Stages of the DCO Process

The DCO process follows a clear statutory timetable. Each stage offers opportunities for the community and stakeholders to engage and have their say.

Consultation event for the energy centre project

Step 1

Pre-Application Consultation

Before submitting the application, the project team carries out two stages of consultation with local communities and statutory consultees to gather views and refine the proposals.

Step 2

Submission & Acceptance

The DCO application, including an Environmental Statement and detailed plans, is submitted to the Planning Inspectorate, which checks whether it meets the required standards.

Step 3

Public Examination

The Examining Authority conducts a thorough examination, including written questions, hearings and site visits. Anyone who registers as an Interested Party can take part.

Step 4

Recommendation & Decision

The Examining Authority submits a recommendation report to the Secretary of State, who makes the final decision on whether to grant the Development Consent Order.

Step 5

Construction & Operation

Subject to consent, construction would begin in line with the requirements and mitigations set out in the DCO, followed by operation of the energy centre.

How to Get Involved

There are many ways for local residents, businesses and organisations to participate in the DCO process for the South Humber Bank Energy Centre.

Register as an Interested Party

Once the application is accepted, you can register with the Planning Inspectorate to become an Interested Party. This gives you the right to submit written representations, attend hearings and question evidence.

Registration Guide

Project team reviewing planning documents

Review the Application Documents

The full DCO application, including the Environmental Statement, plans and supporting reports, is available to view. Copies are also deposited in local libraries and public locations.

View Documents

“The DCO process gives everyone who is affected by a nationally significant project the chance to make their voice heard. We encourage local people to take part and help shape the South Humber Bank Energy Centre.”

SHB Energy Centre Project Team

Community Engagement

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about the DCO process and the South Humber Bank Energy Centre.

Energy generating stations above a certain output are designated as Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects under the Planning Act 2008. These must be consented through the DCO route, which provides a single, comprehensive consent and ensures that national infrastructure needs are carefully weighed alongside local impacts.

During pre-application consultation you can submit comments directly to the project team. After the application is submitted and accepted, you can register as an Interested Party with the Planning Inspectorate and provide written representations during the examination stage. Details of each consultation period are published on this website and in local media.

All views, whether supportive or opposed, are considered. The Examining Authority looks at the full range of evidence and weighs the benefits of the project against its impacts before making a recommendation to the Secretary of State. Concerns raised by the community often lead directly to design changes and additional mitigation measures.

The Environmental Statement and all supporting documents can be viewed on our documents page and at nominated local deposit locations. Physical copies are made available at public libraries and council offices during the consultation period.

The South Humber Bank industrial landscape

Stay Informed About the DCO

Keep up to date with every stage of the Development Consent Order application and find out how you can take part in the process.

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DCO Application