Stronger planning powers for mayors proposed

Mayors across England are to be given ‘call in’ powers to take charge of the most important planning decisions in their areas.

Under the latest policy from new Prime Minister Andy Burnham, a mayor will be able to take over key planning applications which impact on local growth, and direct a council to take it forward or refuse it.

The move has been backed by ten mayors from different parties and will bring mayors across the country in line with powers the Mayor of London already has, Downing Street said.

We want the powers that will enable mayors to call in applications of potential strategic importance.”

The national thresholds are being set outside of London for the first time: schemes with more than 150 homes, more than 15,000 square metres of commercial space, or any building over 30 metres or taller, roughly ten storeys will be in scope.

Mayors will also be able to grant up front permission for development, so that building can begin without a developer having to apply.

New powers

Housing Minister Matthew Pennycook (pictured), says: “By early next year, we want the powers that will enable mayors to call in applications of potential strategic importance and to make Mayoral Development Orders to be in place.

“In using these powers, we expect mayors to work in close partnership with local planning authorities in their areas to deliver the housing, infrastructure and good growth that local communities need and deserve.”

Councils will continue to decide the majority of applications though, Downing Street said.

Every decision must still follow the planning rules, the local plan, and national policy. Applicants keep the right of appeal, and ministers will retain a backstop power to intervene themselves.

Mayors will also have a bigger say over how national housing funding is spent in their areas.

The announcement said Homes England will still lead on the biggest projects but its funding and expertise will be focused on the priorities agreed by local mayors.

A consultation on the new mayoral planning powers is open until 5th October 2026.