Rayner set to hit English councils that block new housing with tougher sanctions

Angela Rayner is believed to be frustrated with continuing delays in the system. Photograph: Getty Images

Angela Rayner is poised to introduce tougher sanctions on councils in England that block local housing developments.

Councils could be forced to approve new housing developments – overturning locally agreed plans – under stricter rules or risk handing over control of their planning departments to Whitehall officials.