Editor's note: This brief was summarised by The Property AI Newsroom from a report by The Negotiator. Read the original article for full details.
Government Consults on Boosting Mayoral Planning Powers
The government has announced a consultation on proposals to give mayors across England new ‘call in’ powers over significant planning decisions. The policy, introduced under Prime Minister Andy Burnham, would allow mayors to take over key planning applications that impact local growth and direct councils to approve or refuse them.
According to Downing Street, these changes would bring mayors outside London in line with the powers already held by the Mayor of London. The proposals have received backing from ten mayors representing different political parties.
Scope of New Planning Powers
For the first time, national thresholds for mayoral intervention are being set outside London. The proposals would allow mayors to call in planning applications for schemes involving more than 150 homes, over 15,000 square metres of commercial space, or any building taller than 30 metres (approximately ten storeys).
Mayors would also be able to grant upfront permission for development, enabling building to begin without a separate application from developers. However, local councils will continue to decide the majority of planning applications.
Impact on Letting Agents and Inventory Clerks
Letting agents and inventory clerks should note that these changes could affect the speed and scale of new housing and commercial developments in their areas. The government has stated that all decisions must still comply with planning rules, local plans, and national policy. Applicants will retain the right of appeal, and ministers will keep a backstop power to intervene if necessary.
Additional Measures and Consultation Timeline
Mayors are also set to have a greater say over how national housing funding is allocated in their regions. Homes England will continue to lead on the largest projects, but its resources will be focused on priorities agreed with local mayors.
The consultation on these new mayoral planning powers is open until 5th October 2026.
Source: The Negotiator