Written statement (Wales): National Infrastructure Commission for Wales (NICW) and Infrastructure Planning - Sep 30

Adam Price MS, Cabinet Minister for Enterprise, Connectivity and Energy: Today I am outlining the next steps for the future of the National Infrastructure Commission for Wales (NICW). 

Since its establishment in 2018, NICW has provided valuable independent advice to Welsh Ministers on Wales's long-term infrastructure needs. Its work has helped shape thinking on a range of strategic challenges, including renewable energy, flood resilience, climate adaptation and, most recently, the Wales' first ever comprehensive Infrastructure Assessment.

In our manifesto we expressed a commitment that NICW would be asked to investigate issues surrounding digital infrastructure in Wales. With the current news headlines around AI, data centres and advances in telecommunications this seems more relevant than ever. I want our approach to digital infrastructure to reflect Welsh values. 

In order to carry out this work, I am therefore extending the terms of Commissioners Eurgain Powell, Helen Armstrong, Nick Tune and Aleena Khan until December 2027. I am also confirming interim Chair, Dr Jenifer Baxter, as Chair for the same time period. 

This extension of terms also provides an opportunity to consider NICWs future role, functions and organisational form, within the context of other Welsh Government economic and infrastructure policy. 

Whilst the work by NICW will have a longer-term focus, it will not happen in isolation. In the immediate term, we are currently working across Government in the areas of digital, planning, energy, water and economic policy to develop a strategic policy framework for data centres and AI compute infrastructure in Wales. As part of this work we will assess future demand, infrastructure capacity and international best practice, before considering options for a Welsh policy approach that supports investment, provides greater certainty for communities and developers, and aligns with wider objectives for economic growth, digital infrastructure and the transition to net zero. I will be bringing forward a separate statement on this work in due course. 

As Wales faces increasing demands to deliver major infrastructure investment, there is a strong case for ensuring that our institutional arrangements are equipped not only to assess future needs but also to support confidence in the planning, development and delivery of nationally significant projects. This issue was highlighted in NICW's own research into infrastructure project delivery published in March. 

I would like Wales to benefit from an integrated model that brings together the strategic assessment of Wales's long-term infrastructure needs; the assurance and oversight of major infrastructure programmes and projects; and strategic project development and delivery functions, particularly where these support place-based economic development and national growth objectives. 

Such an approach would represent a significant evolution from the current situation and will provide Wales with a stronger, more coherent framework for planning, assuring and delivering infrastructure investment over the long term. 

I have therefore asked that consideration of these matters for economic infrastructure forms part of the work currently being undertaken on the design of the new economic development agency. 

Once decisions have been taken on the remit and operating model for the new development agency, we will be able to consider whether anything further is required to ensure we have robust infrastructure assessment, assurance and delivery functions in Wales. Comprehensive engagement will take place with relevant stakeholders and across government before any proposals are brought forward. 

The valuable evidence, recommendations and analysis produced by NICW over recent years, including the Wales Infrastructure Assessment, will continue to inform policy development across government as we work to build a more resilient, prosperous and sustainable Wales.

I will make a further announcement on this issue after I have received further advice and recommendations from the economic development agency Design Advisory Panel.