Tendring District Council and Colchester City Council are delighted to announce that the Tendring Colchester Borders Garden Community Development Plan Document (DPD) has been shortlisted in the Best Plan category at the RTPI (Royal Town Planning Institute) East of England Awards for Planning Excellence 2026.

The shortlist recognition is a significant endorsement of the long-term vision, collaborative planning and technical work that underpins the DPD, which was prepared jointly by Tendring District Council, Colchester City Council and Essex County Council with the support of HYAS Associates to help guide the delivery of a sustainable new Garden Community on the border of the two authority areas.

Adopted in 2025, the DPD sets out the planning framework for the Tendring Colchester Borders Garden Community, including how the new community will be designed, developed and delivered over time. It establishes a clear vision for place-making, infrastructure, movement and connections, economic activity, community facilities, green infrastructure and environmental quality, helping to ensure that growth is planned in a comprehensive, coordinated and locally accountable way.

The Best Plan category celebrates planning documents that demonstrate excellence in shaping high-quality places and providing a robust framework for sustainable development. Being shortlisted reflects the strength of the councils’ shared commitment to creating a new community that is well-connected, infrastructure-led and landscape-led, while supporting homes, jobs, services and lasting environmental enhancement.

Cllr Mark Stephenson, Leader of Tendring District Council, said: “We are pleased to see the Tendring Colchester Borders Garden Community Development Plan Document recognised through this year’s RTPI East of England Awards shortlist. This is an important acknowledgement of the ambition, care and collaboration that has gone into producing a plan that will help shape sustainable growth and high-quality placemaking for years to come.”

Cllr David King, Leader of Colchester City Council, said: “This shortlist is welcome recognition for the extensive work undertaken by the councils and partners in preparing a strong, locally led plan for the Garden Community. The DPD provides a clear and ambitious framework to guide future development and to help ensure that new homes, infrastructure, green spaces and community facilities come forward in the right way.”

The RTPI East of England Awards for Planning Excellence celebrate outstanding plans, projects and planning achievements from across the region. Winners are due to be announced at the East of England awards ceremony on 17 June 2026.

‍