Residents across Ash will shortly receive their polling cards for the Ash Neighbourhood Plan Referendum, which will take place on Thursday 29 October 2026. This referendum gives everyone on the electoral register in the parish the opportunity to decide whether the Ash Neighbourhood Plan should be formally adopted and used to help guide planning decisions in our area.
Where Can I View the Plan?
Residents can view the full Ash Neighbourhood Plan online via the Guildford Borough Council and Ash Parish Council websites. Printed copies are also available to inspect at Ash Library and Guildford Borough Council’s offices at Millmead House. All residents are encouraged to take the opportunity to review the Plan before voting in the referendum on Thursday 29 October 2026.
Direct links to the plan documents
- Ash Neighbourhood Plan (referendum version) (PDF, 6 MB)
- Appendix A: Ash Design Guidance and Codes (PDF, 9 MB)
- Appendix C: Local Green Spaces (PDF, 4 MB)
- Appendix F: Ash Neighbourhood Plan policies map (A3) (PDF, 10 MB)
What is the Ash Neighbourhood Plan?
The Ash Neighbourhood Plan (ANP) has been prepared by Ash Parish Council following extensive consultation with residents, businesses, community groups and stakeholders. The plan sets out a community-led vision for how Ash should grow and develop up to 2045.
While a Neighbourhood Plan cannot prevent development altogether, it can influence where development takes place, the type of housing that is built, how new developments are designed, and how important local green spaces, wildlife corridors and community assets are protected. Once adopted, the Plan becomes part of the statutory development plan used when determining planning applications in Ash.
Why is the Referendum Important?
This referendum is the final stage in the Neighbourhood Plan process. Following independent examination, the Plan was found to meet the required legal tests and has been approved to proceed to referendum.
A vote in the referendum allows residents to decide whether the Plan should be brought into force. If more than 50% of those voting vote “Yes”, Guildford Borough Council will formally adopt the Plan and use it when making planning decisions affecting Ash.
Whether you support the Plan or have concerns about it, this is your opportunity to help shape the future of our community. Every vote matters.
Polling Cards Being Sent Out
Polling cards are now being issued and will be arriving with electors over the coming weeks. Please check the information on your polling card carefully, including your polling station details.
Residents who are not yet registered to vote must register by 11:59 pm on Tuesday 13 October 2026. The deadline to apply for a postal vote is 5 pm on Wednesday 14 October 2026, and the deadline for proxy vote applications is 5 pm on Wednesday 21 October 2026.
Key Date
Ash Neighbourhood Plan Referendum
Thursday 29 October 2026
For further information about the Ash Neighbourhood Plan, including the full document and supporting evidence, please visit:
Have your say and help shape the future of Ash, Ash Vale by taking part in the referendum on 29 October.