Planning applications
Councils are currently debating reforms to planning application decision-making powers and determining specific development proposals.
Councils are currently debating reforms to how planning applications are determined, with Brent Council approving changes in October 2026 to transfer more decision-making authority to officers. This follows new national legislation, which Lewisham's Governance Committee also discussed in July 2026, noting the government's response to planning committee reform.
Barnet Council's Planning Committee approved six planning applications in September 2026, including new flats at Gloucester House despite previous refusals. In October 2026, Hillingdon Planning Committee discussed several applications, while Greenwich's Local Planning Committee saw all applications withdrawn or deferred in September 2026. Harrow's Planning Committee and Sutton's Scrutiny Committee are scheduled to meet on 21 October 2026.
Planning applications are formal requests for development permission, and the national legislation driving these reforms aims to address the time taken to determine applications. Central Government views this as a potential barrier to economic growth and the delivery of new homes.
Key facts
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.