Michael Gove is to rid local councils of the ability to approve new builds if plans face delays.
According to reports, the levelling up secretary is poised to overhaul the UK’s planning system for new homes on Tuesday in a bid to address the nation’s shortage of homes.
Such plans could see councils lose the right to approve proposals from housebuilders, with Gove set to give each three months to detail how housing needs will be met in their area.
“We have been clear that the government is on the side of the builders and not the blockers,” a levelling up department spokesperson said on Tuesday.
“Councils must play their part and deliver the homes this country needs, without concreting over the countryside.”
Gove had told The Times that there was “no excuse” for local authorities to not process applications on time and reiterated the government’s target of building 300,000 new homes annually.
“The housing secretary has already told councils that they need to step up, and we are providing a lot of support to help them do so,” the spokesperson added.
“Those that continue to drag their feet can expect to face government intervention.”