The Local Plan will guide the development of the borough, addressing needs for housing and employment, and establishing planning policies for community facilities, infrastructure, the natural and historic environment, climate change adaptation, and well-designed places. The council had previously published a Notice of Intention to Commence Local Plan preparation in June 2026.
The timetable for the Local Plan has been updated to accommodate the May 2027 local elections and the subsequent pre-election period. This revised schedule also allows adequate time to review and respond to feedback from the scoping consultation held in September 2026.
Further public engagement is scheduled, with the next consultation running from January to March 2027. A subsequent consultation on the proposed Local Plan is anticipated in 2028, with the plan's adoption expected in March 2029.
“"Passing Gateway 1 is an important step in shaping Ashford’s future. The new Local Plan will help us plan positively for homes, jobs, infrastructure and high-quality places, while protecting and enhancing the borough’s natural and historic environment. We look forward to hearing from residents and stakeholders during the next consultation."
More information regarding the council’s emerging Local Plan is available on the council’s web pages.
