Neighbourhood Planning
On this page:
Adopted neighborhood plans
There are three adopted neighbourhood plans in Dover district. These are:
Each adopted plan and its supporting documents can be viewed using the hyperlinks above.
Other designated areas
Six other parishes in the district have designated their parish ready to produce neighbourhood plans. These are:
Click the relevant parish to review the current progress of their Neighbourhood Plans.
What is a Neighbourhood Plan?
Neighbourhood planning was introduced through the Localism Act (2011), and the Neighbourhood Planning Regulations (2012).
It enables local communities to shape development and growth in their area through the production of one of the following:
- A Neighbourhood Development Plan ('neighbourhood plan' or NDP)
- A Neighbourhood Development Order (NDO)
- A Community Right-to-build Order (CRO)
To produce one of these, a Qualifying Body (either the Town/Parish Council or a Neighbourhood Forum) must first apply to the District Council to have their Parish or area 'designated'.
Once designated, the Qualifying Body can then prepare and produce a neighbourhood plan. This plan must be in general conformity with the strategic objectives of the adopted Local Plan. They cannot be used to prevent development. Early engagement with the district council is encouraged, to help make the plan as effective as possible, while ensuring compliance.
The draft plan must undergo public consultation and be approved by referendum before it can be adopted or 'made' by the district council. It then becomes part of the statutory Development Plan, and is a material consideration when considering planning applications in that parish or designated area.
The 2025 Statement of Community Involvement provides more information about how the Planning Policy team can assist Town and Parish Councils or Neighbourhood Forums with the preparation of a Neighbourhood Plan. You can also contact us by emailing planning.policy@dover.gov.uk.
Further information
Further information on the neighbourhood planning process and FAQs are available below:
Legislation:
Government Guidance:
Other Guidance:
If you have any further questions on neighbourhood planning or are thinking of preparing a neighbourhood plan for your area please get in touch with us at planningpolicy@dover.gov.uk
Contact
Tel: 01304 872 244
Email: planningpolicy@dover.gov.uk