22/06/2026
What is an NSIP and Why Does It Matter?
Many residents have asked what an NSIP is and why it is different from a normal planning application.
NSIP stands for Nationally Significant Infrastructure Project. These are large-scale developments that the Government considers important to the country's infrastructure needs, such as major energy projects, airports, railways, roads and electricity transmission networks.
The proposed Castle Way Energy Project falls into this category because of its scale.
Unlike a standard planning application, an NSIP is not determined by South Derbyshire District Council. Instead, the application is examined by the Planning Inspectorate, which gathers evidence, considers representations from residents, local authorities and other stakeholders, and then makes a recommendation to the Secretary of State.
The final decision is then made by the relevant Government Minister, rather than local councillors.
What does this mean for residents?
✅ Local residents can still have their say.
✅ South Derbyshire District Council, Derbyshire County Council, parish councils and elected councillors can all submit representations and evidence.
✅ Residents can register as Interested Parties and make formal comments during the examination process.
❌ Local councillors will not vote on whether the project is approved or refused.
Where are we now?
The Castle Way Energy Project is currently at the pre-application consultation stage. This means the developer is seeking feedback before submitting its application.
This is one of the most important stages for residents to engage with, as concerns raised now can influence the design of the project before it reaches the formal examination process.
Whether your concerns relate to:
Loss of agricultural land
Impact on local villages
Battery storage safety
Traffic and construction disruption
Landscape and visual impact
Ecology and wildlife
Property and amenity impacts
Grid infrastructure and pylons
Now is the time to make your views known.
As your Ward Councillor, I am working with a cross-party group of councillors from across the affected area to ensure residents are informed and that local concerns are properly represented throughout the process.
The key message is this: although South Derbyshire District Council will not make the final decision, local voices can still play an important role in shaping the project and influencing the evidence considered by the Planning Inspectorate and Secretary of State.
