Incineration

The controlled burning of waste. Energy may also be recovered in the form of heat (see Energy from Waste).

Independent Examination

The process by which a planning inspector may publicly examine a Development Plan Document (DPD) or a Statement of Community Involvement (SCI), in respect, before issuing a binding report. The findings set out in the report of binding upon the local authority that produced the DPD or SCI.

Independent Retailer

A non-multiple retailer operating separately and outside of a larger company chain.

Index of Multiple Deprivation (IMD)

A ward-level index made up from six indicators (income; employment; health deprivation and disability; education; skills and training; housing; and geographical access to services). IMD can help to identify areas for regeneration.

Industrial Waste

Waste from a factory or industrial process.

Inert waste

Waste not undergoing significant physical, chemical or biological changes following disposal, as it does not adversely affect other matter that it may come into contact with, and does not endanger surface or groundwater.

Infill development

The development of a relatively small gap between existing buildings.

Informal Hearing

A planning appeal hearing undertaken in a structured way, but without the full formality of a local inquiry.

Information Technology (IT)

The technology required for information processing. In particular, the use of computers and computer software to convert, store, process, transmit and retrieve information.

Infrastructure

Basic services necessary for development to take place, for example, roads, electricity, sewerage, water, education and health facilities. 

Inquiry (sometimes known as a Public Local Inquiry)

A hearing by an planning inspector into a planning matter such as a local plan or appeal. 

Inset map

A development plan map showing a particular area of interest on the wider proposals map at a larger, more readable scale.

Inset village / Village envelope

A village that is 'inset' from the green belt or other countryside protection policies on the proposals map, sometimes allowing appropriate development.

Inspector's Report

A report issued by an planning inspector regarding the planning issues debated at the independent examination of a development plan or a planning inquiry. Reports into Development Plan Documents (DPDs) will be binding upon local authorities.

Interchange (Transport Interchange)

To transfer between different transport modes to complete a single journey. Transport interchanges are places where the change between modes of travel is easy, for example a bus/rail station or an airport with rail access.

Inward Investment

New business investment or expansion of an existing investment into an area from outside.