Should the government introduce a national scheme of delegation for planning committees?

The government plans regulations under the Planning and Infrastructure Act 2025 to modernise planning committees, including a national scheme of delegation via a two-tier structure, a maximum 13-member size limit, and mandatory training. Housing minister Matthew Pennycook cited significant variation in delegation creating risk and uncertainty. The LGA and BPF express concerns that it erodes democratic mandates and hinders local responsiveness.