Yesterday, Kier Starmer met with mayors across England to determine how best to speed up construction projects, particularly in housing
With a focus on devolution, construction blockers, and homes, infrastructure, and transport, the meeting discussed how many projects have been stalled or slowed.
The PM also announced that some direct government support will be given to challenge blockers.
A new ‘Right to Request’ process was discussed
One of the blockers discussed and to be challenged was the refusal by Enfield Council to support a New Town, which would be located near a train station and in an area with a high need for housing.
Decisions on new towns are now to be taken ‘in the national interest alone.’
Another project discussed was extending services from Moorgate to Welwyn Garden City and Stevenage, improving links across Transport for London’s control.
Alongside the discussions, the Right to Request process was introduced which will allow mayors to propose new devolved powers in their areas, intended to put more power in the hands of local authorities that would otherwise remain in Parliament. This will contribute to the government’s push to build 1.5m new homes.
The prime minister is also confirming investments to several major transport projects in England, including a mass transit system in West Yorkshire, expanding the Birmingham Metro, and reopening the Cowley branch rail line from Oxford city centre to the new Science Park.
“It will be the next generation that suffers”
Prime minister Keir Starmer said: “For too long, Britain has been held back by a system that says no, delaying projects, blocking growth and leaving communities behind.
“We’re turning that on its head by backing our mayors to get Britain building again, with spades in the ground and more jobs across the country. There will always be the naysayers and the blockers, but we cannot afford to give into them – because it will be the next generation that suffers.”
He added: “This government is backing mayors with the biggest devolution drive in a generation, putting real power in the hands of local leaders, because those with skin in the game know best what their communities need. That is the right thing to do for communities, and it’s the right thing to do for growth.”
Mayor of West Yorkshire Tracy Brabin stated: “We have ambitious plans for our region and a Mass Transit network is a key part to unlocking our untapped potential which will boost growth and put more money in people’s pockets.
“With backing from the government and more powers devolved to mayors who know their areas best, we will transform West Yorkshire.
“Building the Mass Transit system our region needs will benefit the economy, strengthen connections, and improve lives for generations to come.”
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