Norfolk County Council warns national planning changes could weaken local democracy as new rules limit which applications reach councillors directly.
Norfolk County Council has written to government ministers expressing concerns about new planning regulations which could significantly reduce the role of elected councillors in deciding planning applications.
The changes, due to come into force on 31 October 2026, introduce a national system determining which applications are considered by planning committees and which are decided directly by planning officers.
Under the new arrangements, smaller developments, including many household extensions and minor housing proposals, will generally be handled by planning officers without being referred to councillors.
Larger or more significant applications may still go before planning committees, but only where they meet specific criteria.
Norfolk County Council has warned that the reforms risk weakening local democratic accountability and reducing opportunities for elected representatives to influence decisions affecting their communities.
The authority believes local knowledge is particularly important when considering developments in rural areas, where planning decisions can have significant consequences for residents.
The government argues that the reforms will streamline the planning system, reduce unnecessary delays and allow councillors to concentrate on major developments and more complex proposals.
Residents will still be able to submit comments and objections to planning applications, although the process for referring cases to committees will change.
The council is urging ministers to ensure local communities retain a meaningful voice in decisions affecting their neighbourhoods.
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