Approval Secured for Sustainable 65-Home Development in West Horsley
The Thames Valley region is set to benefit from a new residential development after plans for 65 new homes in West Horsley received approval from Guildford Borough Council’s Planning Committee. The decision marks an important step forward in delivering much-needed housing while creating a sustainable and community-focused neighborhood.
The approved development will provide a diverse mix of new homes, including 26 affordable properties available through below-market-value rent and shared ownership options. The scheme has been designed to support local housing needs by offering a range of property types suitable for individuals, families, and first-time buyers.
The West Horsley project represents the final phase of a wider housing allocation identified within the Guildford Borough Local Plan, supporting the borough’s long-term strategy for sustainable growth and residential development.
The development will include a variety of homes designed to meet different lifestyle requirements, ranging from one-bedroom maisonettes and two-bedroom bungalows to larger family homes. As part of the commitment to supporting the local community, a local homes guarantee has been introduced, giving residents in the surrounding area priority access to the properties during the first six months of availability.
Beyond housing provision, the development will include extensive areas of green open space, a children’s play area, new walking routes, and improvements to local infrastructure and community facilities. The design aims to create a welcoming environment where residents can enjoy access to nature while benefiting from modern living spaces.
Sustainability has been placed at the heart of the project, with all homes being designed to be zero-carbon ready. Each property will include energy-efficient features such as air source heat pumps, solar panels, and electric vehicle charging points. These measures are intended to reduce carbon emissions, improve energy efficiency, and help residents manage long-term household energy costs.
The scheme will also deliver significant ecological improvements, including the creation of new wildlife habitats, wildflower grassland areas, and the preservation of the site’s existing orchard. These biodiversity enhancements will help strengthen the local environment while maintaining the character of the surrounding area.
Dan Castle, Managing Director of Charles Church Thames Valley, welcomed the approval and highlighted the importance of collaboration throughout the planning process.
“We are delighted that Guildford Borough Council has approved our plans for West Horsley and would like to thank members for their support,” said Castle.
“Our planning team has worked incredibly hard to develop this scheme over a number of years, taking on board feedback from key stakeholders including West Horsley Parish Council, Guildford Borough Council officers, and local residents. The result is a thoughtfully designed, sustainable development that helps to address the area’s housing needs.”
Castle added that the development will deliver high-quality homes while supporting the wider community.
“This development will provide a range of high-quality new homes, including affordable housing for local people. We look forward to bringing this exciting new neighbourhood forward and becoming part of the West Horsley community,” he said.
As part of the agreement, Persimmon Homes will provide more than £610,000 in contributions toward local infrastructure, public services, and community improvements. The investment package will support a number of important local initiatives, including accessibility improvements at Horsley Station, road safety enhancements, healthcare services, youth facilities, playing fields, and allotments.
The funding contribution forms part of the wider commitment to ensuring that new developments provide benefits beyond housing alone. By investing in local services and facilities, the project aims to support the continued growth and wellbeing of the West Horsley community.
The approved development reflects the growing demand for sustainable housing solutions across the Thames Valley region, where communities are seeking new homes that combine modern design, environmental responsibility, and strong connections to local amenities.
With planning approval now secured, the project will move forward toward delivery, bringing new homes, green spaces, and community investment to West Horsley. The development is expected to play a key role in supporting local housing demand while creating a high-quality place for future residents to live.
Source Link:https://www.persimmonhomes.com/
