Surrey: Multi million regeneration plans get the green light

Multi-million pound regeneration plans are set to breathe new life into Surrey, it has been revealed.

A new food store and three shops will be built on the council-owned Iron Horse pub site, while more homes will be built across the locality.

The plans have come about as a result of the collaboration between the borough council, Raven Housing Trust and Surrey County Council, to improve the Portland Drive area. 

In addition, ten shared equity homes will be built for local residents, to boost access to affordable housing.

The initiative will also include restaurant units and a purpose-built community centre, which will contain a new library, a café, IT facilities, a youth centre and a drop-in facility.

Commenting on the plans, Natalie Bramhall, borough council executive member for property and regeneration, said: "I’m really pleased that we’ve moved another step closer to providing local people with more accessible facilities, improved grocery shopping on their doorstep and better affordable homes to make the area a nicer place to live.”

Development firm's have been invited to bid for the project, with work expected to begin in the new year and be completed in winter 2015. 

The construction of 40 new homes has already gotten underway in Purbeck Close, and are set to include 11 affordable rented, 19 shared ownership and ten for open market sale.

In addition, planning permission has been granted to redevelop apartments on Portland Drive, build new shops and provide a further 50 houses and flats.

Jonathan Higgs, chief executive officer of Raven Housing Trust, said  he was really pleased about the progress being made.

He added: "Gaining planning consent on the Iron Horse site puts in place another piece of the jigsaw that will see a vibrant new heart at the centre of this community."

Published 15th July, 2014

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