Chief Planning Officer
Councils are discussing reforms to planning decision-making and delegating authority to Chief Planning Officers for strategic plans and development approvals.
Lewisham's Governance Committee discussed significant reforms to planning decision-making and minor adjustments to the council's scheme of delegation in September 2026. This follows a recommendation in September 2025 for Harrow Council's cabinet to delegate authority to the Chief Planning Officer, Viv Evans, to progress all aspects of the New Harrow Local Plan 2021-2041.
The Chief Planning Officer's assessments and recommendations continue to inform planning approvals, such as for a new semi-detached house and a cricket net facility, which Harrow Council's Planning Committee approved in September 2025. Harrow Council is also set to become a Responsible Body for Biodiversity Net Gain, allowing it to manage and invest funds from new developments, as recommended for approval by the Cabinet in February 2026.
The Chief Planning Officer is the senior official responsible for planning matters within a local authority, including making delegated decisions on development applications. There are no upcoming meetings currently scheduled where this topic is on the agenda.
Key facts
- Harrow Council's Cabinet recommended approval for the council to become a Responsible Body for Biodiversity Net Gain in February 2026. Source
- Harrow Council's Planning Committee approved a new semi-detached house in September 2025, agreeing with the Chief Planning Officer's assessment. Source
- Harrow Council's Planning Committee approved a new four-lane net facility for Pinner Cricket Club in September 2025, as recommended by the Chief Planning Officer. Source
- Harrow's Planning Policy Advisory Panel recommended delegating authority to the Chief Planning Officer, Viv Evans, to progress the New Harrow Local Plan in September 2025. 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.