Threads / Planning System Reforms / Consulting the Secretary of State on planning decisions
Closed Consultation Published 23 Mar 2026 Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government ↗ View on GOV.UK

Consulting the Secretary of State on planning decisions

We are seeking views on proposals that require Local Planning Authorities (LPAs) to consult the Secretary of State on some planning decisions.

Opened 23 Mar 2026
Closed 4 May 2026
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This consultation seeks views on 2 proposals for a requirement for Local Planning Authorities (LPAs) to consult the Secretary of State where they are ‘minded to refuse’ an application for planning permission.

It also seeks view on a proposal for LPAs to consult the Secretary of State where they are ‘minded to allow’ an application.

The consultation is set out in 3 sections:

  • a new proposal for a requirement to consult the Secretary of State where LPAs are minded to refuse planning permission for specified commercial development
  • a new proposal for a requirement to consult the Secretary of State on certain applications relating to nuclear facilities where LPAs are minded to refuse planning permission
  • a new proposal for a requirement to consult the Secretary of State on certain applications for planning permission for residential development within a Defence Detailed Emergency Planning Zone. This requirement would have a limited geographical extent (4 LPAs)