Mayors in England are set to receive enhanced powers to approve or reject major housing developments, a move that could streamline the building process but has also raised concerns about diminishing local democratic input.
Under the proposed devolution plans championed by Andy Burnham, mayors would gain the authority to "call in" decisions made by local councils. This would allow them to greenlight significant building projects or block them entirely. In some instances, mayors could grant upfront permission, bypassing the need for developers to formally apply to local authorities.
The initiative comes as the Labour party faces challenges in meeting its manifesto commitment to construct 1.5 million homes in England over five years. Proponents argue these new powers are necessary to accelerate housing delivery and overcome local opposition that can stall vital projects.
These enhanced powers would initially apply to developments involving more than 150 homes, commercial spaces exceeding 15,000 square meters, or any structure 30 meters or taller, equivalent to approximately 10 stories. Ten of the 14 devolved mayors have reportedly backed the proposal.
London Mayor Lord Khan has already been granted similar powers earlier this year through an "emergency measure" designed to unblock stalled sites and facilitate the construction of more affordable housing in the capital.
Burnham acknowledged that the change would shift power away from councillors, Members of Parliament, and local residents. He stated that challenges to local decision-making are sometimes necessary and can work both ways, addressing not only "NIMBYism" (Not In My Backyard) but also situations where local authorities propose developments with unacceptable community impacts. "It's a two-way street," he commented.
The decisions made by mayors must adhere to existing planning regulations, local area plans, and national policy. Ministers would retain a final power to intervene.
Further, mayors are expected to gain a greater role in allocating national housing funding from Homes England within their regions. They will also be empowered to impose a levy on new developments to finance essential infrastructure projects.
A public consultation on these proposals is anticipated soon. The Liberal Democrats have criticized the plan, calling it a "direct attack" that could silence residents. Gideon Amos, the party's housing and planning spokesperson, argued that transferring powers from communities and local councillors diminishes local people's voices and that Labour's devolution approach is unlikely to solve the housing crisis. He suggested that instead of silencing residents, the government should equip local councils with the resources to build affordable homes and supporting infrastructure.