PEOPLE in Greater London would get a bigger say on major planning decisions in their area under government plans to devolve power to borough councils.

Under current legislation, London mayor Boris Johnson has the final say on all planning applications over a certain size.

However, proposals in the Localism Bill would put power back in the hands of councils like Hounslow - with only the biggest proposals having to go before Mr Johnson.

If approved, the change would give householders much more influence over large developments planned for their neighbourhoods, such as Tesco's proposals for a new supermarket by Hounslow bus garage.

Announcing the new policy last week, communities secretary Eric Pickles said it would help ensure local decisions reflect local priorities.

"We will streamline the way London is run, so Londoners have a stronger voice, with decisions taken by the mayor, borough leaders and neighbourhoods based on local priorities in the capital," he added.

The Bill also includes the intention to allow homeowners to build extensions, add a storey or conservatory or build driveways without necessarily needing planning permission.

Mr Johnson would be given more say on spending funding for housing and regeneration projects, while the London Assembly would get new scrutiny powers to hold the Mayor of London to account for his decisions.