planning appeals
Councils are reforming planning decision-making processes, which can be subject to appeal, driven by national legislation to speed up application determinations.
Brent Council approved reforms in October 2026 to transfer more planning decision-making authority to officers. This decision, made at an extraordinary council meeting, was in response to new national legislation mandating a shift in how planning applications are determined. The national legislation aims to reduce the time taken for decisions, which Central Government recognises as a potential barrier to economic growth and new homes.
Separately, Harrow Council adopted its Local Plan 2021-2041 in March 2026, a comprehensive document guiding future development across the borough. The plan, which replaced an older version, was championed by Councillor Marilyn Ashton, Deputy Leader of the Council and Portfolio Holder for Planning & Regeneration.
Key facts
- Brent Council approved reforms to transfer more planning decision-making authority to officers in October 2026. Source
- New national legislation mandates a shift in how planning applications are determined. Source
- This national legislation aims to reduce the time taken to determine planning applications. Source
- Harrow Council adopted its Local Plan 2021-2041 on March 24, 2026. Source
- The Local Plan guides future development and replaced a plan over a decade old. 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.