National Scheme of Delegation of Planning Functions
Greenwich Council recently rejected a motion challenging the National Scheme of Delegation of Planning Functions, effective October 2026.
Greenwich Council rejected a motion in September 2026 that sought to protect democratic oversight in planning decisions. The motion, proposed by Councillor Charlie Davis, argued that the National Scheme of Delegation of Planning Functions, effective from October 2026, would reduce scrutiny by councillors and residents.
The scheme, which sets out how planning functions are delegated, means ward councillors will no longer be able to call applications into committee. Councils will also lose the ability to automatically refer applications based on a certain number of objections, according to a report in September 2026.
The National Scheme of Delegation of Planning Functions is a new national framework of regulations governing the delegation of planning functions, requiring amendments to council constitutions. It is aimed at speeding up the planning process and comes into effect on 31 October 2026.
Key facts
- Greenwich Council rejected a motion to challenge the National Scheme of Delegation of Planning Functions in September 2026. Source
- The National Scheme of Delegation of Planning Functions is due to come into effect on 31 October 2026. Source
- Under the scheme, ward councillors will no longer be able to call applications into committee. Source
- Councils will no longer be able to automatically refer applications based on objections. Source
About this summary
This summary was written automatically from our published stories and the council meeting records they draw on. It describes what councils have discussed and decided; it does not take a view on any decision. Each key fact links to the story it comes from. Updated 30 September 2026. Spotted a mistake? Email community@opencouncil.network.