Editor's note: This brief was summarised by The Property AI Newsroom from a report by Property Industry Eye. Read the original article for full details.
Mayors May Gain Power to Override Councils on Major Property Developments
Proposals are being put forward by prime minister Andy Burnham that could give mayors the authority to intervene in local planning decisions and approve or reject major property developments. The proposed policy would allow mayors to “call in” applications and direct councils to approve or refuse them, as well as grant upfront permission for some plans without developers needing to make an application.
The new powers would apply to developments of more than 150 homes, commercial projects exceeding 15,000 square metres, and buildings at least 30 metres tall. According to the report, ten of England’s 14 devolved mayors are said to support the proposals, which would align their planning powers more closely with those of the London mayor.
The measures are intended to prevent major developments from being blocked where they could support economic growth or contribute towards the government’s target of building 1.5 million homes during this parliament. However, the powers could also be used to stop developments supported by councils if their impact on local communities is considered unacceptable.
Planning decisions made by mayors would still need to comply with planning rules, local plans, and national policy. Ministers would retain the ability to intervene in these decisions. The proposals also include giving mayors greater influence over how national housing funding from Homes England is spent in their areas and allowing them to levy developments to fund major infrastructure.
The report notes that there are concerns about the potential reduction in influence for councillors, MPs, and local residents if additional planning powers are transferred to mayors. The proposals have received support from housing minister Matthew Pennycook, who described the powers as an “essential part of the toolkit that mayors need to effectively deliver new homes and regeneration.” However, the Liberal Democrats have criticised the proposals, with their housing and planning spokesperson describing them as a “direct attack” on communities.
A consultation on the proposals is expected to be published later this month.
Source: Property Industry Eye