Reforms to Britain's planning laws have been pushed through by the government, despite widespread opposition to the proposals.
Under the new legislation, planning restrictions will be loosened to make it easier to build new facilities such as airport runways and terminals, wind turbines and nuclear power stations.
The creation of a controversial Infrastructure Planning Commission that would take decisions on applications, based on council reports, is part of the new laws.
MPs have criticised the proposed independent body, arguing that ministers should retain final control, but a move to ensure that the government has final say over decisions was defeated by 303 votes to 260 in the Commons.
The planning laws were moderated slightly by the government to sway Labour rebels and ensure the Planning Bill was passed by the MPs, with ministers remaining responsible for the selection of potential sites.
New rights are included in the legislation for householders facing compulsory purchase and ministers insist that it will help to speed up the planning process, potentially benefiting property investors and developers.
The Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE) has declared that the Planning Bill is "essential to secure the infrastructure the UK needs to maintain competitiveness and secure quality of life" in Britain, with major investment needed in the country's transport, waste, energy and water networks over the coming years.
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