Our Neighbourhood Plan is on the final leg. An Examiner has approved our Plan with a few amendments. Horsham District Council has issued a Decision Notice and the next step will be a Referendum planned for the 11th June 2026.

​

Follow the links to the Post Examination Plan and Decision Notice.​

​

The Neighbourhood Plan sets out how West Chiltington will grow and evolve up to 2031—shaped by local residents to protect what makes our Parish special while planning positively for the future. Once adopted, it will guide all planning decisions and help secure funding for local improvements.
 

🌿 Protecting Our Rural Character

• Safeguards the Parish’s distinctive rural feel, including green spaces, wildlife habitats and historic buildings

• Protects important views, dark skies, and countryside gaps between settlements

• Enhances biodiversity and ensures development supports nature recovery
   

🏡 Planning for the Right Homes

• Provides for locally needed housing, including affordable homes and downsizing options

• Ensures new development is low-density, well-designed, and in keeping with village character

• Focuses development within defined areas to avoid unnecessary building in the countryside
   

🚶 Improving How We Get Around

• Supports safer walking, cycling and horse-riding routes

• Encourages better connections within the Parish and to nearby towns

• Aims to address traffic concerns on narrow rural lanes
   

🏪 Supporting Local Business & Community Life

• Protects and supports local shops, pubs, and small businesses

• Encourages home working and better digital connectivity

• Promotes sustainable tourism and rural enterprise
   

❤️ Strengthening Community Facilities

• Supports improvements to recreation, leisure and wellbeing facilities

• Encourages new healthcare provision and services for older residents

• Protects valued community assets like the village hall, shops and open spaces
   

🌱 Delivering Benefits for the Parish

• Gives the community a stronger voice in planning decisions

• Helps secure developer funding (CIL) for local infrastructure and projects

• Ensures future development reflects local priorities, not just district-level decisions
   

Why Your Vote Matters

This Plan has been shaped by local input and will directly influence how West Chiltington develops. Voting gives you the chance to support a future that protects our character, meets local needs, and strengthens our community.