Neighbourhood plans were introduced by the Localism Act 2011, which allows local communities to prepare a plan for their area. It gives local communities a say in how development happens in their area.

This can help determine development, such as where new homes should be built, shops or offices should go and what green spaces should be protected.

The designation of Fordingbridge Parish as a neighbourhood area was confirmed by the New forest Council on 8 April 2020. The designation is the first stage in the preparation of a neighbourhood plan for the area.