Ash residents invited to help shape new Neighbourhood Plan

Residents in Ash can help shape the future of their community by taking part in a consultation on a proposed Neighbourhood Plan.

Neighbourhood Plans give communities a meaningful voice in local development. Through the plan, residents can help to:

• identify suitable locations for new homes, shops and offices
• shape the appearance and character of new buildings 
• guide the design, use and protection of open spaces
• support development that reflects local priorities.

Once approved, a Neighbourhood Plan becomes part of the borough's Development Plan, meaning its policies must be considered when planning applications are decided.

Cllr Fiona White, Lead Councillor for Planning, says:

"This is a real opportunity for the Ash community to directly shape the places where they live and work. The more people who get involved, the stronger and more representative the final Plan will be."

While Neighbourhood Plans give communities significant influence, they can't be used to prevent the development needed to meet current and future needs across the borough. Instead, they help ensure that growth happens in a way that reflects local aspirations and strengthens the character of the area.

We're encouraging all residents, businesses and community groups to review the proposed Ash Neighbourhood Plan and share their views. The consultation will run from 12noon on Tuesday 20 January to 12noon on Monday 9 March.

Further information and an online response form are available on our consultation website.

After the consultation, an independent examiner will consider all feedback and recommend whether the Plan should proceed to a local referendum, be modified before doing so, or be refused. If it goes to referendum and receives majority support, the Ash Neighbourhood Plan will become part of the Development Plan for the area.

Published on Monday 19 January, 2026.