13 March 2026
The new system for assessing the environmental impact of developments in the UK must build on the strengths of the existing process or risk creating uncertainty for industry and further delay improvements to the UK planning system, says the Institute of Sustainability and Environmental Professionals (ISEP).
The UK Government today published the long overdue results of a consultation on Environmental Outcomes Reports (EORs) aimed at streamlining the assessment process with a new outcomes-based approach. The new system will be introduced by the end of 2027 to replace Environmental Impact Assessment regulations which for decades have enabled local authorities, regulators, statutory bodies and the public to understand the likely significant effects of developments on people and the natural environment, and therefore help to bring about effective decision-making.
ISEP represents thousands of expert members working on all sides of the UK planning system, from impact assessment professionals and specialist environmental consultants, to those working for construction, infrastructure and development companies, and local planning authorities.
ISEP said its members were ready to support the new system to ensure effective delivery of the homes and infrastructure the UK needed while ensuring development were sustainable, supported the transition to net zero and protected the natural environment – but warned they needed clear guidance, increased capacity and skills support, and a well-resourced regulator.
Signe Norberg, Director of Policy and Public Affairs at ISEP, said: “The government’s overdue response to the Environmental Outcomes Reports consultation does provide some initial clarity over the direction and next steps for the proposed reforms. However, it is essential that this new system builds on the strengths of the environmental impacts assessment and strategic environmental assessments, which has been the cornerstone of the UK planning system for decades.
"To succeed, it is also vital that the system is supported by clear guidance, increased capacity and skills support, a greater focus on monitoring and enforcement through well-resourced regulators. Without these important measures alongside the policy change, it will create uncertainty for industry and further delay the important outcomes that we are all trying to achieve.
"We stand ready to support the government in delivering a new system which maintains robust environmental protections, delivers the outcomes on the ground and improves the overall planning process.”
Maintain Robust Environmental Protections: ISEP has consistently emphasised that "streamlining" the planning system must not compromise the existing environmental safeguards provided by EIA and SEA. For examples the watering down or removal of social and climate impacts within EORs. While EORs offer an opportunity for improvement, their implementation must avoid diluting protections or creating loopholes that undermine sustainability.
Address Capacity and Skills Shortages: Successful implementation of reforms requires addressing the lack of capacity and expertise within local authorities and statutory consultees. Without sufficient investment in training, resources, and skills, the reforms risk delays, inconsistent application, and reduced environmental oversight.
Evidence-Based Decision-Making: The transition from EIA/SEA to EORs must be underpinned by robust, evidence-based research. Current proposals lack sufficient detail on how environmental outcomes will be measured, monitored, and enforced, creating risks of legal uncertainty and reduced confidence among stakeholders.
Enhance Public Participation and Transparency: Public participation is a cornerstone of effective environmental governance. Any move to streamline processes should strengthen, not diminish, opportunities for public engagement, access to environmental information, and safeguard routes for legitimate environmental and social based challenges to decisions.
Integrate Climate Change and Biodiversity Targets: EORs must explicitly align with the UK’s legal commitments on net zero, biodiversity net gain, and other international sustainability targets. These considerations should be fully integrated into planning reforms.
Strengthen Monitoring and Accountability: Effective monitoring and enforcement mechanisms are crucial for achieving the intended environmental outcomes. ISEP advocates for independent oversight and a national database to support transparency, knowledge-sharing, and adaptive management of EORs.
