Latest update reveals regional mayors across England are set to be handed sweeping “call-in” powers to greenlight large-scale developments, bypass local “nimby” blocks, and accelerate the government’s housebuilding targets.
Under major new devolution proposals unveiled by Prime Minister Andy Burnham, regional mayors will be granted direct authority to take control of local planning decisions. The move aims to break through bureaucratic gridlocks and push forward major infrastructure projects.
The upcoming proposals, backed by 10 devolved mayors and set to be detailed in a government consultation will give regional leaders the power to “call in” significant planning applications, directing local councils to either approve or refuse them.
The powers will apply to large-scale residential schemes of more than 150 homes, commercial spaces exceeding 15,000 square metres, or any structure 30 metres (roughly 10 storeys) or taller.
As reported by Guardian, Mayors will have the ability to grant upfront permission in principle, allowing developers to bypass standard prolonged application stages for fast-track approvals.
For funding and iinfrastructure levies, regional leaders will secure a greater say on how national housing funding from Homes England is distributed locally alongside the authority to charge a development levy to fund major infrastructure projects.
The policy brings regional mayors across England in line with the powers already held by the Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan.
