Planning for major projects will be streamlined under new plans announced by planning minister Lord Falconer on Monday.

The establishment of round table discussions and mediation between planners and local residents will take place under the proposals.

Dates will be clearly set for the publication of the inspector's report to the secretary of state and the appointment of an independent technical advisor.

The move follows an announcement last year about the government's intention to change the rules governing the planning of major projects.

"These new rules will mean public inquiries into major projects in the future are fairer but also quicker. They will save time and money," said Lord Falconer.

"No-one in the end benefits from an adversarial planning system. Only by parties getting together and talking in a sensible and reasonable way will issues get resolved.

"Inquiries at the moment can take years and years. Look at Terminal Five. That inquiry process took over six years from appointment of the planning inspector to delivery of the final report."

The new procedures will come into force from June 7.