Politics · 23 August 2026
Mayors can now overrule councils on big housing plans in England
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Mayors across England will receive new authority to overturn local council planning decisions concerning proposals for developments exceeding 150 homes. Housing minister Matthew Pennycook said "call-in" powers are essential for mayors to deliver new homes and regeneration. The change will apply to mayors in 13 areas, including Manchester and Liverpool, similar to Sadiq Khan in London.
Reported by BBC · How we write briefs