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Wales
Welsh infrastructure consent: former DNS route
The DNS route ended on 15 December 2025. Check whether a proposed major infrastructure project now falls within the consent framework under the Infrastructure (Wales) Act 2024.
Guide summary
Do not use the former DNS route for major infrastructure projects in Wales. The DNS route ended on 15 December 2025. You must check if your project falls under the new Infrastructure (Wales) Act 2024 consent framework. Follow current Welsh Government guidance before preparing an application.
- Do not use former DNS thresholds, forms or guidance
- Check if your project falls under the 2024 Act framework
- Identify other planning, environmental or consents needed
- Use current Welsh Government infrastructure consent guidance
- Contact PEDW if the correct route is unclear
- Get professional planning or legal advice before applying
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The former Developments of National Significance (DNS) route ceased to have effect on 15 December 2025. Sections 62D to 62L of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 and Part 5 of the Planning (Wales) Act 2015 were omitted by the Infrastructure (Wales) Act 2024.
Do not prepare or submit a new application using the former DNS criteria or procedure. Major Welsh infrastructure projects now fall within the infrastructure-consent framework established by the 2024 Act where its current criteria apply.
Choose the current consent route
Check the current Welsh infrastructure-consent criteria and procedure before preparing an application. The correct route depends on the project and whether it falls within the 2024 Act framework; other development may remain within the local planning system.
Planning and Environment Decisions Wales (PEDW) can provide procedural contact information. For advice on how the law applies to a particular project, seek professional planning or legal advice.
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1
Do not use the former DNS thresholds, forms or procedural guidance for a new application
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2
Check whether the project falls within the current Infrastructure (Wales) Act 2024 consent framework
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3
Identify any other planning, environmental or secondary consents the project needs
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4
Use current Welsh Government procedural information and contact PEDW if the correct route is unclear
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5
Seek professional planning or legal advice before committing to an application route
Procedural contact
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Contact PEDW (Planning and Environment Decisions Wales) (opens in a new tab)
Contact details for Planning and Environment Decisions Wales