Canada to fast-track infrastructure projects with new one-year approval rule

The Canadian government has unveiled plans to speed up approvals for major infrastructure projects. Under the proposed changes, developers could see decisions within a one-year timeline. Officials claim the reforms will bring more predictability for investors and communities alike.

A key part of the proposal is the creation of a 'Crown Consultation Hub' for each project and affected Indigenous community. This would replace the current system, where developers must navigate multiple federal agencies for permits. Instead, a single agency would coordinate all approvals, cutting down on delays.

The government is also setting a strict one-year target for final decisions on major projects. According to officials, this would reduce uncertainty for businesses while maintaining environmental and Indigenous consultation standards. To gather feedback, a broader discussion paper has been released. The public and stakeholders now have 30 days to review and comment on the proposed reforms.

If implemented, the changes would mark a significant shift in how Canada approves large-scale projects. The one-year timeline and centralised consultation process aim to balance speed with thorough oversight. The government will review submissions before finalising any adjustments to the system.