Mayors to get powers to overrule local councils on planning decisions
The UK government is granting mayors in 13 English regions new powers to overrule local councils on large-scale planning decisions. This initiative aims to accelerate housebuilding to meet the government's target of 1.5 million new homes by the end of the decade.
Why it matters
This shift in planning authority represents a significant centralization of power intended to bypass local opposition and address the national housing crisis.
Image source, PA Media By Kate Whannel political reporter Published 1 minute ago 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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