England shifts routine planning decisions to officers and expands AI trial
New delegation rules take effect October 31 as the government expands testing of its PlanAssist planning support tool to 15 councils.
What the record says
England’s government says a new National Scheme of Delegation takes effect October 31, moving straightforward planning applications to professional officers rather than requiring a planning committee slot.
In its October 30 announcement, the housing ministry also set out an expanded 12-month trial of PlanAssist at 15 councils, following initial testing in Camden, Barnet and Dorset.
The tool gathers applications, local policies and site constraints to help trained officers review cases. Officers remain responsible for decisions, and the government says the software will not be mandatory.
The ministry intends wider availability by the end of 2027. That remains a plan, rather than evidence the tool is already operating at every council.
Source details and supporting locations.
Practical next step
Applicants should check their council’s current planning procedures and application requirements.
Limits and what is not established
The reform does not guarantee planning permission or a particular decision time. Trial performance claims do not establish results for every council.
Sources checked October 31, 2026. Later notices may change instructions or arrangements.
Original sources
UK Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government: original information