Local Authority Planning Departments Face Widespread Challenges in Recruitment and Skills

A new report from the Ministry of Housing, Communities, and Local Government (MHCLG) has highlighted pressing challenges in local authority planning departments across England. The Local Authority Planning Capacity and Skills Survey, the first of its kind, underscores widespread issues with recruitment, retention, and skills gaps that are hampering service delivery and preparedness for reforms.

The survey, conducted by Verian and involving 327 local authorities and National Parks, found that 91% of departments experienced recruitment difficulties in the past year, with senior and mid-level development management roles being the hardest to fill. Additionally, 72% of departments reported struggles with retaining staff, with key issues including uncompetitive salaries and low applicant numbers.

The survey revealed significant skills shortages, particularly in ecology, biodiversity, and urban design, which are critical for implementing the Biodiversity Net Gain requirements of the Levelling Up and Regeneration Act. Nearly 75% of departments indicated that these gaps had hindered their readiness for the new reforms. Departments are relying heavily on outsourcing to address shortfalls, with 60% using agency staff or consultants.

In response, the government has announced a £46 million investment to bolster planning capacity. This includes funding for the recruitment and training of 300 graduate and apprentice planners and the development of skills essential for reform implementation. The commitment aims to address the structural issues plaguing the sector, including ageing workforces and constrained budgets.

This report serves as a baseline for annual updates to track progress and refine support programmes. The next survey, a targeted pulse survey, will be launched this month to provide refreshed insights and ensure effective interventions are delivered where needed most.

Planning capacity must be bolstered for reform implementation