Secretary of State
Barnet councillors are currently opposing government reforms to planning powers, while Kingston Council has debated national permitted development rules for HMOs.
Barnet councillors voiced strong opposition in July 2026 to government reforms, including changes to the Planning and Infrastructure Act and the National Planning Policy Framework. Councillor Shimon Ryde, who moved a motion, argued these reforms risk reducing local democratic control over planning decisions and limiting public consultation opportunities.
Kingston Council debated stricter regulations on Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) in October 2025. A motion to the council noted that national permitted development rules allow many smaller HMOs without planning permission, which can impact community cohesion and local services.
Key facts
- Barnet councillors voiced strong opposition to government reforms to the Planning and Infrastructure Act and National Planning Policy Framework in July 2026. Source
- Councillor Shimon Ryde argued that government reforms risk reducing local democratic control over planning decisions. Source
- Kingston Council debated stricter regulations on Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) in October 2025. Source
- A motion to Kingston Council noted that national permitted development rules allow many smaller HMOs without planning permission. 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.