Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

A Local Plan sets out a vision and framework for the future growth of our borough.  It guides and manages change to ensure that building is in accordance with the principles of sustainable development.

A Local Plan provides the opportunity to shape the places that we live, work and socialise.  It addresses the needs for housing and employment and provides a series of planning policies covering many other topics such as community facilities and infrastructure, the natural and historic environment, mitigation and adapting to climate change, and achieving well designed places.  Although the general principle of the plan is to encourage growth within the economy of Ashford, it also seeks to protect our valued assets such as heritage, leisure, nature and open spaces. 

Everyone can be affected by development, across the borough, so it’s important to get involved in the preparation of the Local Plan.  

Once adopted, the policies within a Local Plan are used as the starting point to decide planning applications for future development.

By working together with you, our residents and stakeholders, we can ensure that the development that comes is right for our borough and the affordable homes and related infrastructure local people need is carefully considered.

You do not have to attend a drop-in event. If you would like to find out more about the draft Local Plan and you are unable to attend any of in person events, you can attend our virtual event instead. 

Alternatively, you can access the draft Local Plan and all the supporting evidence, including leaflets and comment forms from this webpage. 

Copies of our comment forms are also available on request, simply email  planning.policy@ashford.gov.uk to request a copy and return your completed form to the same address with the subject heading ‘Draft Local Plan 2042 Consultation’. 

If you wish to return a comment form by post, please send to Plan Making & Infrastructure, Spatial Planning, Ashford Borough Council, International House, Dover Place, Ashford, TN23 1HU.

The Council will review and collate all the comments received during the consultation. The consultation will be used to gain a understanding of key local issues and, where appropriate, will inform the content of the next iteration of the draft Local Plan.   

Prior to the submission of the Local Plan to the Secretary of State for Examination, the Local Plan will be subject to further formal public consultation in accordance with Regulation 19 of the Town and Country Planning (Local planning) (England) Regulations 2012.  

The timetable for the preparation of the new Local Plan is set out in the council’s Local Development Scheme (LDS).  View the latest Local Plan timetable  

We want local people and communities, businesses and other interested parties to be involved and have their say on the Local Plan. 

To get involved and be kept informed on the progress of the emerging Local Plan please sign up to join the Have Your Say Consultation Portal