House Builders Association Newsletter 2026 – Issue 16

Burnham on devolution and housebuilding

On 30 July, Prime Minister Burnham announced his plans for the transfer of powers from Westminster “as part of the largest package of financial powers ever offered to English mayors,” including mayors receiving “a share of income tax revenues for the first time”.

The government wanted “every community to benefit from stronger local decision-making. Areas without a mayor would still be supported to establish strategic authorities and gain greater control over local priorities… the changes would give every part of the country the tools to create strong local economies, improve public services and shape its own future.”