Changes to How Planning Applications Are Decided

The Government is introducing new national planning rules, called the National Scheme of Delegation for Planning Functions, which will change how councils across England decide which planning applications are considered by Planning Committee and which are determined by planning officers. 

The most important thing for residents is that they will still be able to have their say on planning applications. Public comments, objections and representations will continue to be considered as part of the planning process and must be taken into account when decisions are made.

From 31 October 2026:

• Planning applications will no longer automatically be considered by a Planning Committee because an Elected Member requests a call-in.

• More applications will be determined by professionally qualified planning officers under nationally prescribed rules.

• Some applications may still be considered by Planning Committee where they meet criteria set out within the new national framework and in agreement between the Chair of Planning Committee and Director of Planning and Economic Development.

Residents will still be able to:

• View planning applications.

• Submit comments and objections.

• See the reasons behind planning decisions.

• Raise concerns where they believe proper procedures have not been followed.

The changes are being applied consistently across all local planning authorities in England.

Chair of the Planning Committee, Councillor Stephen Jeramiah said: “Whilst the call in process is changing, decisions will continue to be properly documented and subject to strong governance, professional standards and legal challenge where appropriate.

I would like to reassure any residents who are concerned that fewer applications being considered by committee could reduce transparency that the Council’s Planning Team are highly trained and must make decisions in accordance with planning law, national policy, local planning policy and material planning considerations.

Planning decisions made by officers are not made in private or without scrutiny. Decision notices will continue to be published and planning applications will remain subject to statutory consultation processes.”

For more information visit www.broxtowe.gov.uk/planning