Hurst Green Parish Council is pleased to announce that the Hurst Green Neighbourhood Plan is set to go to a local referendum on Thursday 20th November 2025. This marks an important milestone in shaping the future development of our village and surrounding area.

Following an independent examination, Rother District Council has confirmed that our Neighbourhood Plan meets the required legal ‘basic conditions’. The Examiner’s report, issued in March 2025, concluded that the Plan, with recommended modifications, satisfies statutory requirements and was suitable to proceed to referendum.

The examination process considered whether the Neighbourhood Plan aligns with national planning policies, contributes to sustainable development, and conforms with the strategic policies of Rother District’s development plan. The Examiner undertook the review through written representations, with no hearings held, and made several recommendations to ensure the Plan complies fully with the law.

Key modifications include updates to the village development boundary, inclusion of housing allocations on London Road, clarification of policies on heritage assets, design guidance, broadband, and public realm improvements, and adjustments to environmental and transport policies. The full list of modifications and updated Plan are available through Rother District Council and the Parish Council.

The referendum will ask Hurst Green residents the question: “Do you want Rother District Council to use the Hurst Green Neighbourhood Plan to help it decide planning applications in the Hurst Green Neighbourhood Development Area?”

If a majority of residents vote in favour, the plan will become part of the statutory development plan for Rother District. This will also increase the Parish Council’s share of Community Infrastructure Levy receipts from 15% to 25%, supporting local projects and improvements.

Hurst Green Parish Council has worked closely with Rother District Council to incorporate the Examiner’s recommended modifications, ensuring the Plan reflects both community priorities and statutory requirements. The Parish Council encourages all residents to take part in the referendum and have their say on the future development of Hurst Green.