Andy Burnham major housing rule change 'coming this week'

NewsUK NewsHousingIt would represent a major shift in how things are done08:36, 23 Aug 2026Updated 08:39, 23 Aug 2026Prime Minister Andy Burnham(Image: Carl Court/PA)Andy Burnham is set to give mayors new powers to take control of local planning decisions and greenlight large-scale developments in proposals to be unveiled next week. The move would see mayors allowed to “call in” the decisions and direct councils to take them forward or refuse them.‌They will also be able to grant upfront permission so developers can start building without having to apply. This will apply to developments of more than 150 homes, commercial spaces of more than 15,000 square metres or any building 30 metres or taller – which is roughly 10 storeys.‌Ten of the 14 devolved mayors have backed the move. It will bri