A senior Labour councillor in Birmingham has launched a scathing attack on his own party's government, warning that its proposed overhaul of the planning system is a 'disaster about to happen'.
Internal Party Clash Over Growth Strategy
Councillor Philip Davis, a Labour representative, used a Birmingham planning meeting on Thursday, 18 December 2025, to voice his profound concerns. He argued that the government's drive for economic growth is being pursued at too high a price. 'The obsession with growth at any price is a huge mistake,' Davis stated. 'You don't get growth by trashing the planning system, whether it's environmental protections or densities.'
The criticism is directed at plans unveiled earlier in the week by Housing Secretary Steve Reed. The Labour government, elected last year, has pledged to build 1.5 million new homes over the current Parliament and says it is 'fixing' a system that too often blocks development.
What the Government's Planning Reforms Propose
The proposed changes to the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) aim to 'optimise land use' and speed up construction. Key measures include:
- A default 'yes' to building suitable homes around rail stations and in town centres, with new minimum density rules.
- Fast-tracking developments that meet high standards for design and energy efficiency.
- Streamlining biodiversity and environmental rules for smaller sites to make it easier for developers to build.
- Encouraging a more diverse housing mix, including affordable rural homes and accessible properties.
Chancellor Rachel Reeves framed the reforms as a choice to 'back the builders not the blockers', unlocking investment and making affordable homes a reality. Steve Reed added that thousands more quality homes are needed to help families stuck in temporary accommodation.
'Stripping Away' Local Control
Councillor Davis's core objection centres on a perceived loss of local authority. He accused the government of misreading the situation needed for 'decent growth' in cities. 'Stripping away the historic planning controls which we've enjoyed as councillors is absolutely wrong,' he argued.
Despite his party allegiance, Davis was unequivocal: 'I say that as a Labour councillor obviously but you have to criticise your own government when they get it so badly wrong.' His intervention highlights a significant rift between local Labour representatives and the national party's centralising planning agenda.
While the Home Builders Federation welcomed the government's 'clear focus on sustainable development', Davis's comments underscore the tension between accelerating housebuilding and maintaining local democratic oversight and environmental safeguards. The debate sets the stage for further conflict as the government seeks to implement its ambitious housing targets.
