Senators have voted in favour of new legislation to speed up the planning process for a number of major infrastructural projects.

The aim of the temporary legislation is to reduce the permits and planning procedures needed for 58 key construction and infrastructure projects. Ministers believe that kick-starting the building sector is key to boosting the economy during the crisis and will reduce unemployment.
Opponents say the fast-track procedures will allow developers to ignore public opinion and environmental objections.
The lower house of parliament backed the legislation last year.