Burnham expected to give mayors new powers over local planning decisions
Andy Burnham is expected to unveil proposals next week that would give regional mayors the power to call in local planning decisions and direct councils to approve or refuse large-scale developments.
Andy Burnham is expected to give regional mayors new powers to take control of local planning decisions and greenlight large-scale developments, in proposals set to be presented next week. The move would allow mayors to “call in” planning decisions and direct councils to take them forward or refuse them, according to reports.
Under the proposals, a mayor would be able to intervene in planning applications and overrule local authorities on major projects. The policy is designed to speed up development and bypass what the government describes as “nimby” councils that block housing and infrastructure schemes.
Burnham acknowledged that some councils and residents would object to having mayors overrule them on unpopular planning decisions. However, he insisted that the policy would also enable mayors to overrule “nimby” councils, ensuring that large-scale developments are not stalled by local opposition.
The expected announcement comes as part of a broader push to devolve more powers to regional leaders and accelerate housebuilding across England. The proposals are likely to be welcomed by developers and business groups, while local authorities may express concern about losing control over planning decisions in their areas.
The move would also give mayors more say on national housing funding, allowing them to align investment with regional priorities. This could reshape how housing targets are met, particularly in areas where councils have resisted new developments.
Details of the proposals are expected to be confirmed next week, with further information on which types of developments would fall under mayoral call-in powers. The changes would apply to combined authority areas with directly elected mayors, including Greater Manchester, where Burnham serves as mayor.
The policy marks a significant shift in the balance of power between central government, regional mayors, and local councils. It is part of a wider agenda to streamline planning processes and address the UK’s housing shortage, which has become a key political issue.
Critics may argue that the new powers undermine local democracy, while supporters say they are necessary to overcome entrenched opposition to new housing. The proposals are expected to be debated in Parliament once formally introduced.
