Key facts
- Andy Burnham is proposing to give mayors new powers to control local planning decisions.
- Mayors could 'call in' decisions and direct councils on large developments.
- The powers would apply to developments of more than 150 homes, commercial spaces exceeding 15,000 sq m, or buildings 30 meters or taller.
- Ten of 14 devolved mayors have expressed support for the initiative.
- The Liberal Democrats have opposed the plan, calling it an 'attack' on local communities.
Andy Burnham is set to propose granting mayors new authority over local planning decisions and the approval of large-scale developments. These proposals would allow mayors to 'call in' planning applications and direct local councils to approve or reject them. Developers could also receive upfront permission for projects meeting specific criteria, enabling construction to commence without a full application process.
The proposed powers would apply to developments of more than 150 homes, commercial spaces exceeding 15,000 square meters, or any building 30 meters or taller (approximately 10 storeys). Burnham acknowledged that such a devolution of power might be seen as disempowering local councillors, MPs, and constituents. However, he argued that challenges to local decision-making are sometimes necessary and can work both ways, addressing not only 'nimbyism' but also instances where local authorities propose unacceptable developments.
Ten out of the 14 devolved mayors from various political parties have expressed support for this initiative. The move aims to bring these mayors in line with the Mayor of London, Sir Sadiq Khan, who was granted similar powers earlier this year to expedite stalled housing projects in the capital. Burnham suggested that these new powers would encourage a more integrated approach to planning, with councils proactively collaborating with mayors to find acceptable solutions.
The government's target is to build 1.5 million homes in England within five years, and this initiative is part of that broader objective. Any mayoral decisions must still comply with existing planning rules, local plans, and national policy, with ministers retaining a final intervention power. Additionally, mayors would have a greater say in the allocation of national housing funds from Homes England and could impose levies on developments to finance necessary infrastructure.
The Liberal Democrats have strongly opposed the plan, labeling it a 'direct attack' on communities and local councillors. Gideon Amos, the party's housing and planning spokesperson, stated that transferring powers away from local people would not solve the housing crisis and advocated for empowering local councils with resources to build affordable homes and supporting infrastructure.