power grab
Brent Council has approved reforms transferring planning decision-making authority to officers, driven by new national legislation.
Brent Council councillors approved reforms in October 2026 that transfer more planning decision-making authority to officers, despite strong opposition from councillors at an extraordinary meeting. These changes are mandated by new national legislation.
The national legislation aims to address the length of time taken to determine planning applications, which Central Government considers a barrier to economic growth and the delivery of new homes. No further meetings on this topic are currently scheduled.
Key facts
- Brent councillors approved reforms transferring planning decision-making authority to officers in October 2026. Source
- The approval occurred at an extraordinary council meeting on October 12, 2026. Source
- Councillors voiced strong opposition to the changes. Source
- The reforms are mandated by new national legislation. Source
- The national legislation aims to address slow planning application determinations. 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 15 October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Email community@opencouncil.network.