Public hearings

In their role of making strategic planning decisions for London, the Mayor may occasionally take over an application, therefore becoming the local planning authority. They must then hold a public hearing before deciding whether or not to grant planning permission.

Public hearings are normally announced at least one week in advance. They are held in the Chamber at City Hall, unless otherwise advertised.

Under article 7 of the Mayor of London Order (2008), the Mayor has the power to direct that he will become the local planning authority for an application. These are commonly referred to as ‘call-ins’, ‘public hearings’, 'representation hearings' and ‘Stage 3s’.

To be able to take over an application it would have to meet the following three policy tests; as set out in the order:

• the development would have a significant impact on the implementation of the London Plan
• the development would have significant effects that are likely to affect more than one London borough
• there are sound planning reasons for intervention.

Please refer to the order for a definitive explanation of the policy tests

Procedure for Representation Hearings

The procedure for a Representation Hearing can be found in the representation hearings procedure.