Ruling on Proposal for 461 Residences Postponed

A determination regarding contentious plans for 461 new residences on land formerly designated as Surrey green belt has been deferred. The planning application, pertaining to a site off Parvis Road in West Byfleet, was lodged by Barratt Homes in July and has since accumulated over 400 objections. Among the objectors are Will Forster, the recently elected Member of Parliament; Councillor Ellen Nicholson; and Josh Brown, a former ward member who has previously voiced opposition to the proposals. Planning documentation submitted by the developer indicated that the scheme is expected to offer “a multitude of benefits.” Barratt Homes has been approached for additional commentary. Officials were slated to provide their assessments of the designs this month, according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service; however, the decision has now been rescheduled for February. The development has encountered significant opposition from local residents and politicians. They characterized the project, situated a 12-minute walk from the centre of West Byfleet, as “completely inappropriate,” criticized its potential impact on traffic, and warned it would overburden local infrastructure. Mr. Forster stated: “I wish to object to the proposed application at West Hall on the grounds of traffic congestion, insufficient sustainable transport options, failure to meet active travel requirements and insufficient CIL funding to provide the required school places.” Woking Borough Council released the land for development in October 2021, allowing for up to 555 homes and 15 Traveller pitches, which means the current application falls within the council’s established guidelines. Barratt Homes aims to construct the project in two phases and has conducted nine distinct pre-application meetings with Woking Borough Council officers to ensure the designs are appropriate. A supporting planning statement affirmed that the layout was conceived to “make best use” of the site and its natural landscape, including the retention of existing woodland, tree belts, and an orchard. BBC Surrey can be followed on Facebook and X. Story suggestions can be sent to southeasttoday@bbc.co.uk or via WhatsApp at 08081 002250. All rights are reserved by BBC, Copyright 2024. The BBC bears no responsibility for the material on external websites. Details concerning our external linking policy are available.