Mayors gain override power on major planning decisions in 13 areas

UK government to grant mayors in 13 areas new powers to overrule local councils on select planning decisions (large housing schemes, big commercial spaces, or tall buildings), matching London’s “call-in” ability and enabling upfront permission for some projects. Local councils still handle the majority of applications, with a consultation on implementation planned next week. The move aims to boost housing delivery (target of 1.5 million homes by 2030) but has drawn criticism from opposition parties over centralisation and potential two-tier governance.