Mayors across England given new powers to call in major planning decisions
Ten mayors backed a national reform letting them take over key planning applications and grant upfront permission for large developments, bringing them in line with London's mayor.
Mayors across England are to be given "call in" powers to take the most important planning decisions in their areas, the government announced on 24 August 2026.
What the new powers allow
A mayor will now be able to take over key planning applications that affect local growth and direct a council to take it forward or refuse it. Mayors will also be able to grant upfront permission for development, meaning building can begin without a developer having to apply for permission first.
National thresholds have been set outside London for the first time: schemes with more than 150 homes, more than 15,000 square metres of commercial space, or any building over 30 metres tall — roughly ten storeys — will fall within scope.
Backed by mayors, aligned with London
The change has been backed by ten mayors from different political parties and brings mayors across the country in line with powers the Mayor of London already holds. Mayors outside London will also be able to charge a levy on development to help fund major infrastructure, using the same mechanism that helped deliver the Elizabeth line — which boosted rail capacity and supported housing growth and regeneration in London.
Applicants keep the right of appeal, and government ministers retain a backstop power to intervene themselves if needed.
Key takeaways
- Mayors can now take over key planning applications and direct a council to approve or refuse them.
- Mayors can also grant upfront permission for development so building can begin without a developer applying first.
- National thresholds apply outside London for the first time: over 150 homes, over 15,000 sq m of commercial space, or any building taller than 30 metres.
- Ten mayors from different parties backed the move, and applicants retain the right of appeal.
FAQ
Does this remove local councils from the planning process entirely?
No — councils remain the primary decision-makers. The new powers let a mayor take over specific major applications that affect regional growth, and ministers retain a backstop power to intervene themselves.
Can mayors also raise money from developments?
Yes. Mayors outside London can now charge a levy on development to fund major infrastructure, using the same tool that helped deliver London's Elizabeth line.