Planning Changes from 31st October 2026

https://news.maidstone.gov.uk/home/news/26/october/planning-update

Residents are being encouraged to familiarise themselves with national changes to the planning system that come into effect from 31 October.

The changes have been introduced by Government and will apply to local planning authorities across England.

They will affect how planning applications are decided and the circumstances in which applications can be considered by a Planning Committee. Under the new rules, some types of planning application must be decided by planning officers, while others may still be considered by committee if they meet criteria set out in a new national framework.

Importantly, residents will still be able to comment on planning applications and relevant planning matters raised during consultation will continue to be considered as part of the decision-making process. Residents will still be able to speak for three minutes at the committee meeting. Under the new arrangements, councillor and Parish Council call-in powers are removed.

The council will also publish information about applications considered for referral to committee, including the outcome and reasons behind decisions, helping to ensure transparency within the new system.