Steve Reed to announce planning rule changes for areas near ‘well-connected’ train and tram stations | The IndependentNotifications can be managed in browser preferences.Jump to contentIndependentSwipe for next articleIndependent Bulletin homepageDownload ourSocial PartnerWe are 8 logo (opens in a new tab)AllNewsSportCultureLifestyleChristopher McKeonTuesday 18 November 2025 00:47 GMTHousing Secretary Steve Reed is set to announce changes to planning rules, facilitating construction on land within a 15-minute walk of "well-connected" train and tram stations. (Gareth Fuller/PA)Housing Secretary Steve Reed is set to announce new planning rules aimed at accelerating housebuilding across the UK.New housing developments within a 15-minute walk of well-connected train and tram stations, including in designated green belt areas, will receive a “default yes” from planners.The changes are designed to help the government achieve its commitment to build 1.5 million homes by the next election.Ministers will gain stronger powers to intervene if local councils intend to reject applications for large housing developments of over 150 homes.Other proposals include removing certain organisations from the list of bodies that must be consulted on planning applications to streamline the process and reduce delays.In fullThe areas where housing developments will get a ‘default yes’ if based nearbyThank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in