Plans by Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham to give regional mayors the power to approve large housing and commercial developments are being criticized as a move away from local democracy. The proposed measures would allow mayors to direct local authorities to approve developments of more than 150 homes, commercial spaces exceeding 15,000 square meters, or buildings of approximately ten stories or more.
Under the proposals, mayors could also grant upfront permissions for schemes, potentially bypassing the need for developers to apply to local councils. This authority could be used to enforce central government policy, as ten of the 14 metro mayors are from the Labour party. Ministers would retain the ability to impose their own decisions if mayors do not comply with directives.
Critics argue that this initiative, described as an authoritarian and mendacious planning campaign, contradicts the government's pledge to "bring power home." The plan is expected to add bureaucracy to the planning process, at a time when planning officers are in short supply, and may not significantly contribute to the government's target of building 1.5 million new homes within five years. Evidence from London Mayor Sadiq Khan's similar powers suggests that housebuilding rates have not increased.
This is the latest in a series of interventions criticized for their impact on local decision-making and protected areas. The government recently directed councils to approve housing near railway stations, even in the Green Belt, a move that has drawn criticism for encroaching on protected countryside. Despite the Labour manifesto's commitment to preserving the Green Belt, vast areas of previously protected land are reportedly being classified as "grey belt" and opened for development, leading to a significant increase in development around London.
Concerns are also raised about the necessity of these measures, as housebuilders already hold planning permission for 1.4 million homes, with nearly half of dwellings granted permission over the past decade remaining unbuilt. This trend of over-promising and under-delivering on housing targets is noted, with the current five-year target described as "really stretching."
Further actions by the administration include amending requirements for Sports England to consult on planning applications, which previously blocked a high percentage of plans to build on playing fields. The public's right to challenge decisions through judicial review has also been restricted. Additionally, the Environment Agency has reportedly been instructed to approve plans while protections for wildlife, nature, and the landscape are being reduced.
These policies could alienate voters, particularly in constituencies with Green Belt land, where Labour MPs represent over half of the affected areas. The article suggests that Mr. Burnham may face significant backlash from constituents angered by these planning changes.