UK mayors to gain powers to override local councils on major planning decisions

Mayors across 13 English city regions are to receive new powers allowing them to overrule local councils on significant planning decisions. Housing Minister Matthew Pennycook announced the change, which would apply to proposals involving more than 150 homes, more than 15,000 square metres of commercial space, or buildings taller than 30 metres.

Extending London's model across England

The new powers mirror those already held by London Mayor Sir Sadiq Khan, who can "call in" planning applications from individual boroughs. The change will now apply to mayors in Manchester, Liverpool, the West Midlands, the West of England, and nine other Combined Authorities, including South Yorkshire, West Yorkshire, and the North East.

Pennycook described the powers as "an essential part of the toolkit that mayors need to effectively deliver new homes and regeneration." Additionally, mayors will be able to grant "up-front permission" to allow development to begin without a detailed planning application — a measure designed to speed up large-scale housebuilding.

Government's 1.5 million home target under pressure

The Labour government pledged in 2024 to build 1.5 million homes in England by the end of the decade. Progress has been slow, with nearly 180,000 children currently living in temporary accommodation. The Conservatives questioned the reforms, asking whether it was right to deprive councils of the "ability to make planning decisions in their own communities."

A public consultation on the new powers is due to be launched next week.