From 31 October 2026, new national planning rules introduced by the government will change how some planning applications are decided across England, including Elmbridge.

Elmbridge Borough Council acknowledges that planning decisions are important to residents as they shape the future of communities. While councils must follow the new national rules, local priorities and community needs will continue to play a significant role in planning decisions.

The changes will specify which applications must be decided by planning officers and which may be considered by planning committees. All councils, including Elmbridge, will update their decision-making processes and governance arrangements to comply with these regulations.

Planning applications will still be carefully considered by experienced planning officers using both national planning policies and Elmbridge’s own local policies. Currently, planning officers determine 96% of applications in Elmbridge. Residents will continue to be able to comment on applications, and their views will be taken into account.

Councillors will remain involved, especially in more complex or impactful cases, which can still be decided by a planning committee under clear rules ensuring these applications receive appropriate scrutiny.

Key change: Under the new national rules, householder planning applications—such as extensions and alterations to existing homes—will no longer be referred to planning committees by councillors and will instead be determined by planning officers. This aligns with the current approach for the majority of applications in Elmbridge.

The council recognises some residents may be concerned about fewer applications going to planning committees. However, these changes aim to speed up decisions on straightforward applications while allowing councillors to focus on significant proposals that matter most to local communities.

Councillor Caroline James, Portfolio Holder for Planning Services, said: “Residents should be reassured that their voice will continue to matter. While the Government’s reforms will change how some planning applications are determined, local views will still be considered and decisions will continue to be based on national and local planning policies. Councillors will remain involved in the applications that matter most to our communities, and we will continue to ensure planning decisions are made fairly, transparently and in the best interests of Elmbridge residents.”

The council remains committed to making planning decisions fairly, transparently, and in a way that reflects local needs, with residents continuing to play an important part in the process.

Planning changes: your questions answered

• What changes are being introduced to who makes planning decisions?
  The government is introducing new national rules clarifying which applications are decided by council officers and which can go to a planning committee.
• Why are these changes being made?
  To make planning decisions more consistent nationally and speed up straightforward applications.
• Can the council choose not to implement these changes?
  No. These are national requirements. Failure to comply risks legal challenges, appeals, costs awards, and possible Secretary of State intervention.
• When will the new rules come into effect?
  Final rules are expected in summer 2026, with full implementation by 31 October 2026.
• Who will make planning decisions in future?
  Planning officers will decide many applications, especially straightforward ones. Councillors will continue to be involved in more significant or sensitive cases.
• Will fewer applications go to planning committee?
  Yes, but applications with significant economic, social, or environmental impacts can still be considered by councillors.
• Who decides whether an application goes to committee?
  A nominated council officer and councillor (Chairman of Planning Committee) discuss and decide, with the officer having the final say. This collaborative approach ensures consistency.
• Will my views still matter?
  Yes. Residents can comment on applications, and these views are considered by officers or committees. Comments are also reviewed during appeals.
• How can I stay involved in planning decisions?
  Submit comments on applications, sign up for planning alerts, and continue engaging with local ward councillors.
• Will local priorities still be considered?
  Yes. Decisions will be based on both national and local planning policies.
• Will councillors still be involved and can they raise concerns?
  Yes. Councillors play an important role, especially for complex or impactful applications. They can request committee consideration if criteria are met.
• Will the process still be fair and transparent?
  Yes. The council commits to fair, consistent, and open decision-making with clear reporting on committee referrals and decisions.
• What are the main benefits of these changes?
  Faster decisions for straightforward applications, more consistent national decision-making, and councillors focusing on significant local applications.
• Will this make decisions quicker?
  Yes. Straightforward applications can be processed more efficiently.
• I’m worried about losing local input.
  Residents can continue to have their say through comments and discussions with ward councillors.
• How will I know more as things progress?
  Updates will be shared via the council website, social media, newsletters, and regular reports on planning committee referrals and decisions.

Residents are encouraged to stay engaged by submitting comments and signing up for planning alerts to keep up to date with planning applications in their area.

Source: Elmbridge Borough Council — news