UK to default-approve homes near transit, even on green belt, to boost housing supply.

The UK government will introduce a "default yes" policy for homes within a 15-minute walk of train and tram stations, including on green belt land, to accelerate construction and help meet its 1.5 million homes target. Housing Secretary Steve Reed announced changes to the National Planning Policy Framework that grant ministers final approval power over large projects, reduce mandatory consultations, and streamline rejections. The move aims to address the housing shortage by prioritizing developments in well-connected areas, though critics warn it could undermine local input. The reforms are set for formal announcement on November 18, 2025.