Regional mayors in England are set to receive enhanced powers to approve or reject major housing developments, a move intended to accelerate construction but which has raised concerns about the marginalization of local resident input. This initiative is part of an expansion of devolution powers championed by Andy Burnham.
Under the proposed changes, mayors would gain the authority to 'call in' decisions made by local councils and green-light significant building projects. Developers could also be granted upfront permission, bypassing the need for a formal application process. These new powers would initially apply to developments of more than 150 homes, commercial spaces exceeding 15,000 square meters, or any building reaching 30 meters in height, approximately 10 stories. Ten of the 14 devolved mayors have reportedly backed this proposal.
This development comes as the Labour party faces challenges in meeting its manifesto pledge to construct 1.5 million homes in England over five years. London Mayor Lord Khan was previously granted similar powers earlier this year as an emergency measure to unblock stalled sites and boost the construction of affordable homes in the capital.
Andy Burnham acknowledged that the proposed changes would shift decision-making power away from local councillors, Members of Parliament, and residents. He stated that challenges to local decision-making are sometimes necessary and can work both ways, addressing not only perceived "NIMBYism" (Not In My Backyard) but also situations where local authorities propose developments with unacceptable community impacts. "It's a two-way street," Burnham commented.
The decisions made by mayors must align with existing planning rules, local plans, and national policy. National ministers will retain a backstop power to intervene. Additionally, mayors are expected to gain more influence over the allocation of national housing funding from Homes England within their regions and will be empowered to levy development charges to finance necessary infrastructure improvements.
A consultation on these proposals is anticipated soon. The Liberal Democrats have criticized the move, labeling it a "direct attack" on communities and a move that would silence residents. Gideon Amos, the party's housing and planning spokesperson, argued that transferring powers from local communities and councillors diminishes local democracy. He asserted that Labour's devolution approach is fragmented and unlikely to resolve the housing crisis, advocating instead for empowering local councils with resources to build affordable homes and supporting infrastructure.