Walsall Council’s planning service has been recognised for its significant progress and transformation following a recent Planning Peer Challenge conducted by the Local Government Association (LGA) and the Planning Advisory Service (PAS) in March 2025.
The Peer Challenge, held from 5–7 March at the Council’s invitation, provided an independent and honest assessment of the planning service’s performance.
The findings highlighted a service that has made substantial strides since its last review in 2021, evolving into a high-performing, customer-focused operation that consistently exceeds national targets.
“ We are very proud of the progress our planning service has made. This recognition reflects the hard work of our officers and our commitment to delivering a planning service that supports regeneration, growth, innovation, and community wellbeing. Walsall is open for business and we are ready to support the borough’s future “
Councillor Adrian Andrew, Associate Leader
Walsall Council
Key achievements include:
An 85% approval rate for planning applications in 2024, with 940 planning permissions granted.
A strong culture of continuous improvement, with the service embedding recommendations from the 2021 review and demonstrating clear alignment with the Council’s strategic priorities.
A planning team that is engaged, motivated, and well-led, embodying the Council’s values and committed to delivering for residents, businesses and visitors.
The Planning Peer Challenge has reaffirmed Walsall’s commitment to excellence and continuous improvement. It provides a number of recommendations towards achieving a best-in-class reputation which will all be given consideration for implementation as part of our ongoing transformation commitment. The recommendations include some early measures to align our planning committee function with the emerging national planning reforms putting Walsall in a great position to demonstrate best-practise in this area.
This transformation is a vital part of Walsall’s wider £1.5 billion programme of regeneration and investment, which aims to make Walsall the most improved borough in the region. The Council’s vision, outlined in the Council Plan (2025–2029) and the We Are Walsall 2040 Borough Plan, is to create a vibrant, inclusive borough where all residents have equal life chances.
Walsall’s strategic location at the heart of the UK, excellent transport links, and a skilled workforce make it a prime destination for investment. The borough is home to a thriving manufacturing sector and a growing population, with ambitious plans for sustainable development and inclusive growth.