We are delighted to report that the referendum for the Hurst Green Neighbourhood Plan, held on 20 November 2025, resulted in a clear mandate from the local community: 177 votes in favour, 34 votes against, from a total of 211 ballots cast.

With the ‘yes’ vote secured, the next formal stage is for Rother District Council to formally “make” the Neighbourhood Plan. The process normally proceeds as follows:

• After declaration of the result, the District Council brings forward the Plan for formal adoption as part of the statutory development plan for the area.

• Based on precedent in the district, this adoption often takes place within a few weeks of the referendum result.

• Once the Plan is adopted, its policies become part of the planning framework used by both the District and Parish Council when assessing planning applications in the designated area.

What this means for Hurst Green
With the Plan made, our community has secured:

• A stronger voice in where and how development happens in Hurst Green.

• Policies that reflect the priorities expressed by residents during consultation.

• An increased share of Community Infrastructure Levy (from 15% to 25%) from future developments in the parish, which will help fund local infrastructure and community improvements.

• Greater certainty for residents, landowners and developers about what is expected in terms of design, siting and local character.

If you are planning to submit a development proposal, the Plan policies will now be relevant in the decision-making process

A note of caution – looking ahead to the new Rother Local Plan
It is important to recognise that while our Neighbourhood Plan now carries legal weight, the council is concurrently progressing a new Rother Local Plan 2020‑2040 which will guide development and land-use across the whole district in the years ahead. Until that Local Plan is fully adopted, there remains some uncertainty about district-wide strategic policies. In practical terms this means that while our Neighbourhood Plan sets local rules, proposals that conflict with emerging strategic direction could still face challenges until the Local Plan is finalised. The Parish Council will continue to engage proactively with the District Council and keep our community informed, to ensure Hurst Green’s interests are fully protected as that broader plan takes shape.