Andy Burnham to hand mayors sweeping new powers over local planning

Here's what Andy Burnham is proposing

Mayors would be able to "call in" applications and direct councils to approve or refuse them, and to grant upfront permission so developers can begin building without applying at all.

The rules would apply to schemes of more than 150 homes, commercial space of more than 15,000 sq m, or any building 30 metres or taller, roughly 10 storeys.

The intention is to stop "nimby" councils blocking developments that could drive local growth or help meet the target of 1.5 million homes by the end of the parliament.

Ten of the 14 devolved mayors, from different parties, have backed the move, the Guardian reported, bringing them into line with London mayor Sadiq Khan, who was handed the same powers earlier this year.

It follows other interventions from Andy Burnham's proposed death tax to his call for a written constitution.

The PM said to Sunday Times: "Sometimes challenge does need to be made to local decision-making, and actually it cuts both ways.

"It's not all about nimbyism. Sometimes it's the other way round.

"The question is: do you want somebody who's elected by the people of that area to consider a decision, or a far less accountable decision-making process?"

Not everyone is convinced. Liberal Democrat housing spokesperson Gideon Amos called it "a direct attack on communities across the country", arguing that taking powers away from local councillors takes them away from local people.

The full proposals are expected next week.