Government to Override Councils on Housebuilding
Ministers will be given the power to stop local councils from rejecting planning applications for new homes, in an effort to remove barriers to development.
As part of a "pro-growth" package, ministers will be able to issue 'holding directions' to prevent councils from refusing planning permission while they consider using 'call-in' powers to decide on housing developments.
- Currently, ministers can only issue holds when councils are set to approve applications.
- Natural England will also be able to streamline its role, deciding when to give local authorities advice and focusing on "higher-priority" applications and nature recovery.
The government said some councils were "dragging their feet" and had blocked nearly 900 major housing schemes in the last year alone.
The government expects this to speed up approvals for new homes and infrastructure.
Author's summary: Ministers to override councils on housebuilding to boost development.