The Lib Dems have used their autumn conference to warn that the Government’s planning proposals will ‘disempower’ councils.

A policy motion adopted at the conference argued that the proposals amounted to a government ‘power grab’ that will reduce investment in affordable housing and damage public scrutiny of planning decisions.

The motion said the Government’s proposals would reduce democratic accountability and undermine the ability of councils to determine planning applications.

Lib Dem housing, communities and local government spokesman, Tim Farron, said: ‘The Conservatives’ planning power grab will disempower local people and local authorities alike, and lead to even fewer affordable homes being built.’

Councils have already criticised the White Paper for introducing new zones guaranteeing outline planning permission that they fear will take away their powers to influence development.