Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, with reference to the press release entitled Mayors given powers to green light developments, published on 23 August 2026, what assessment she has made of the potential impact of major developments approved through the proposed powers on demand for GP and other NHS services.

I refer the hon. Member to the Written Ministerial Statement made on 1 September 2026 (HCWS298).

Planning obligations are an important mechanism for mitigating the impacts of development, and securing infrastructure and affordable housing. As is the case in London currently, where the mayor calls-in an application they can become responsible for the Section 106 agreement which is used to secure specified obligations, including any which are required before development can commence.

The new National Planning Policy Framework, published on 17 August, is clear that development plans should, at the most appropriate level, set out the contributions expected from development to support the delivery of the plan. This should include the levels and types of affordable housing provision required, along with other infrastructure. Planning law requires all decision-makers to consider applications for planning permission in accordance with the development plan (which includes both the Spatial Development Strategy and local plan for the area) unless material considerations indicate otherwise.

The consultation also covers proposals to extend the power to charge a Mayoral Community Infrastructure Levy (MCIL) to Mayors of strategic authorities outside of London. MCIL would provide a mechanism to raise revenue from new development to help fund strategic infrastructure required to support housing delivery and economic growth.

Mayors would also be required to consult affected Local Planning Authorities (LPAs) when using the powers. LPAs are well placed to identify likely planning contributions required to support development, including contributions towards infrastructure and local services where necessary.