Housing and Planning Act 2016
Councils are currently using the Housing and Planning Act 2016 to override third-party rights for new housing developments.
Tower Hamlets Council's Cabinet approved 32 new social-rented homes at Brunton Wharf in September 2026, utilising Section 203 of the Housing and Planning Act 2016. This power allows the council to override third-party rights, such as Rights to Light, to facilitate development projects.
This approach follows Haringey Council's decision in December 2025, where Councillor Sarah Williams, Cabinet Member for Housing and Planning, approved a new housing project involving the appropriation of land to override third-party rights or interests. The Housing and Planning Act 2016 provides legal mechanisms for housing and planning matters.
Key facts
- Tower Hamlets Council's Cabinet approved 32 new social-rented homes at Brunton Wharf in September 2026, using Section 203 powers. Source
- Tower Hamlets Council used Section 203 powers to override third-party rights, including Rights to Light, for the Brunton Wharf development. Source
- Haringey Council approved a new housing project in December 2025, involving appropriation of land to override third-party rights or interests. Source
- Councillor Sarah Williams, Cabinet Member for Housing and Planning, approved the Haringey project on 4 December 2025. Source
About this summary
This summary was written automatically from our published stories and the council meeting records they draw on, with background from Wikipedia. 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.