12th July 2026
A local councillor has renewed calls for greater transparency over planning decision delays in Stockport after claiming that concerns raised with the council’s Cabinet Member for Housing have gone unanswered.
Four weeks ago, the councillor wrote to the Cabinet Member seeking information about a growing number of planning applications that have exceeded their target determination dates. The concerns centre on the possibility that prolonged delays could increase the risk of developers appealing on the grounds of non-determination, potentially removing decisions from local councillors and placing them in the hands of planning inspectors.
According to the councillor, no response has been received despite the significance of the issues raised.
Since the original letter was sent, two further major housing applications totalling more than 600 homes have reportedly been announced, adding to concerns about pressure on the planning system and the potential implications for local decision-making.
The councillor has now written again, requesting an urgent response and seeking clarification on how many planning applications may be at risk of appeal through non-determination. Questions have also been raised about what measures are being taken to safeguard local democratic oversight of major developments.
In the latest correspondence, the councillor has additionally sought clarification regarding responsibility for housing and planning matters while the Cabinet Member is campaigning as a candidate in the forthcoming Makerfield by-election.
Speaking on the issue, the councillor said: “Transparency, accountability and proper local decision-making matter, and residents deserve answers.”
The concerns have prompted discussion among residents on social media, with some expressing frustration about difficulties obtaining responses from elected representatives and council officials regarding planning matters.
Planning decisions and housing growth remain highly significant issues across the borough, particularly as work continues on the development and delivery of the Local Plan, which will help shape future housing and infrastructure development in the area.
At the time of publication, a response from the council regarding the questions raised had not been received.
