RE:UK response to the consultation on planning powers for Mayors in England

Overview

We have responded to the Government’s consultation on proposals to strengthen mayoral planning powers in England. We support greater devolution where it can help unlock housing, infrastructure, investment and economic growth. However, new powers must be clear, proportionate and focused on improving delivery, without introducing unnecessary costs, complexity or delays into the planning system.

Our key asks

We recommend that the Government:

• Ensures mayoral intervention adds genuine value to the planning process, with clear criteria for calling in applications and safeguards against duplication, additional costs and delays.

• Provides greater certainty for developers and investors, particularly before Spatial Development Strategies are adopted, with clear guidance on how and when new powers can be exercised.

• Supports the effective use of Mayoral Development Orders to unlock housing, regeneration and strategically important development, encouraging collaboration between the public and private sectors.

• Links new Mayoral Community Infrastructure Levies to clear strategic priorities, ensuring funding supports deliverable infrastructure projects while accounting for development viability and existing financial obligations.