Burnham set to give mayors powers over planning amid warnings of corruption and impact on climate
Summary
The government is proposing to give elected regional mayors greater powers over large-scale planning applications, including the ability to call in decisions on major housing, commercial and tall-building schemes. The move is intended to speed up delivery of new homes and regeneration, but it has prompted concerns about local knowledge, greenfield development and the potential for public distrust or corruption allegations.
Why it matters
This could change the decision-making route for significant residential schemes, affecting how surveyors advise clients on planning risk, site prospects and development strategy. It is also relevant to due diligence on land value, deliverability and the likely planning context for larger housing projects.
Key points
- Mayors in 13 areas would gain powers similar to London’s mayor over strategic planning applications.
- The call-in threshold would cover developments of more than 150 homes, large commercial schemes and buildings over 30 metres.
- Government says the changes are aimed at speeding up housing delivery and regeneration.
- Critics warn the approach could weaken local knowledge and increase pressure on greenfield sites.
- Concerns were raised about transparency, consultation and the risk of corruption allegations.
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