Research and analysis
Local Authority Planning Capacity and Capability Survey 2025
This report presents the second national survey of local planning authorities undertaken by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government.
Applies to England
Documents
Details
Building on the 2023 baseline it provides the most detailed picture yet of planning capacity across England. The overall picture is mixed, but encouraging. Fewer authorities now report severe recruitment challenges and retention pressures have eased. Many councils are investing in their own talent pipelines through graduate and apprenticeship routes, and flexible working is becoming an increasingly important part of a competitive offer.
Updates to this page
Published 4 December 2025