The Ash Neighbourhood Plan (ANP) is a community-led planning document prepared by Ash Parish Council after consultation with residents, businesses and local organisations. It sets out a vision and planning policies for Ash up to 2045.
If approved at referendum and formally adopted by Guildford Borough Council, it would become part of the statutory development plan and carry significant weight in planning decisions.
The Plan includes policies covering:
- Design standards for new development.
- Protection of local character in Ash, Ash Vale and Ash Green.
- Protection of green and blue infrastructure.
- Designation of Local Green Spaces.
- Protection of community facilities.
- Support for active travel (walking and cycling).
- Energy efficiency standards.
- Protection of employment areas and local shopping centres.
Why should residents vote for it?
A resident who supports stronger local control over development has several reasons to vote “Yes”:
1. It gives Ash a stronger voice in planning decisions
Without a neighbourhood plan, planning decisions rely mainly on national policy and Guildford Borough planning policies. With a neighbourhood plan, Ash-specific policies must also be considered when applications are determined.
2. It protects the character of Ash
The Plan contains detailed design policies and a comprehensive Design Code that developers will be expected to follow, helping ensure that new buildings fit local character rather than being designed with little regard for the area.
3. It protects important green spaces
The Plan designates dozens of Local Green Spaces across Ash, Ash Vale and Ash Green because of their recreational, environmental, historic or community value. These spaces receive a much stronger level of planning protection.
4. It helps protect community facilities
5. It has already passed independent examination
An independent examiner concluded that the Plan meets the legal requirements and can proceed to referendum.
Does voting “No” mean more unwanted development?
Voting “Yes” or “No”, does not automatically result in more or less housing development. However, if not agreed, it would mean that the Ash Neighbourhood Plan is not brought into force and its additional local policies would not carry statutory weight in planning decisions.
Therefore, a “No” vote would mean:
- No Ash-specific neighbourhood planning policies.
- No neighbourhood-plan-level protection for the identified Local Green Spaces.
- No adopted Ash Design Code to influence development.
- Less local influence over how future development is designed and integrated into the community.
Remember to Vote
On Thursday 29 October 2026, residents of Ash, Ash Vale and Ash Green have an important opportunity to help shape the future of their community by voting in the Ash Neighbourhood Plan Referendum. If more than 50% of those who vote support the Plan, it will be formally adopted and used when planning decisions are made across the parish.
Whether you strongly support the Plan, have reservations about it, or simply want your voice heard, please make sure you vote. Decisions about future housing, the protection of local green spaces, community facilities, design standards and the character of Ash will affect residents for many years to come. The referendum is your opportunity to have a direct say.
A low turnout means important decisions are made by a smaller number of people. By taking part, you help ensure the result genuinely reflects the views of the local community.
Key Date: Thursday 29 October 2026
Ash Neighbourhood Plan Referendum
Don’t leave it to others. Read the Plan, consider the issues, and use your vote to help decide the future of Ash
Image produced by Cllr John Tonks, member of Ash Neighbourhood Planning Committee, using AI.