Mayors to get powers to overrule local councils on planning decisions
The UK government is granting mayors in 13 English areas new powers to overrule local councils on large-scale planning decisions. This move aims to accelerate housing development and regional regeneration.
Why it matters
This policy shift represents a significant change in local governance and urban planning, potentially impacting the speed of infrastructure and housing delivery across England.
Share Save Add as preferred on Google Kate Whannel political reporter PA Media Mayors across England will be given new powers to overrule local councils on some planning decisions.
The change would apply to proposals with more than 150 homes, more than 15,000 square metres of commercial space or buildings over 30 metres.
Mayors in 13 areas including Manchester, Liverpool, the West of England and the West Midlands will gain similar powers to Sir Sadiq Khan in London, who is already able to "call in" planning decisions.
Housing minister Matthew Pennycook said the powers were an "essential part of the toolkit that mayors need to effectively deliver new homes and regeneration".
The Conservatives questioned whether it was right for councils to lose the "ability to make planning decisions in their own communities".
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