Redhill Assisted Living Flats Approved Amidst Flood Risk Concerns

Plans for 120 new assisted living flats in a Surrey town centre have received approval, despite concerns regarding potential flooding in the area. The proposed scheme, situated on the former Colebrook and Spectrum Noke day centre in Redhill, adjacent to Redhill Brook, is located within high and medium-risk flood zones, with hazards linked to the nearby river and heavy rainfall. Surrey County Council, serving as both the applicant and landowner, has proposed a six-storey building that will house approximately 120 self-contained apartments. This development site is part of the council’s initiative to provide 725 extra care affordable homes by the year 2030. Representing the applicant, Carol Bell stated that the project is designed to “address the critical gap in the provision of affordable housing for older people who require accommodation with care and support”. Apprehensions were voiced that some of the proposed 120 new flats would be located on the ground floor of the development, potentially exposing them to flood risks. Councillor Catherine Powell commented: “These people are vulnerable and elderly. I don’t want to be in a situation where these residential levels could be flooded.” She further added: “I’m genuinely not at all convinced we would safely be able to get people out of this building.” Planning officers indicated that the ground-floor apartments are planned to be constructed 300mm above the high-risk flood zone, extending into the medium-risk area. Nevertheless, not all committee members were persuaded that the project posed significant risks. Councillor Ernest Mallett characterized his colleagues’ worries as “over consideration” and dismissed their concerns as “what might happen with a bit of water.” He also remarked: “I’m old and vulnerable. I’ve been up to my waist in water, and I’m still here.”