The Thames Valley region have welcomed a decision to green light plans for 65 new homes at West Horsley.

The application was approved by Guildford Borough Council's Planning Committee last week and will deliver a mix of much-needed new homes, including 26 affordable homes for below market value rent and shared ownership.

The development is the last part of a wider housing allocation identified within the Guildford Borough Local Plan.

The approved scheme will provide a range of homes including one-bedroom maisonettes, two-bedroom bungalows and larger family homes. We offered a local homes guarantee that will give local families priority for the first six months, underling our commitment to meeting local housing need. Alongside this, the development will also deliver extensive green open space, a children's play area, walking routes and significant investment in local infrastructure and community facilities.

All homes on the development will be zero-carbon ready, featuring air source heat pumps, solar panels and electric vehicle charging points. The scheme will also provide biodiversity enhancements, including new wildlife habitats, wildflower grassland and the retention of the site's existing orchard.

Dan Castle, Managing Director of Charles Church Thames Valley, said: “We are delighted that Guildford Borough Council has approved our plans for West Horsley and would like to thank members for their support.

“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.

“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."

As part of the development, Persimmon Homes will contribute more than £610,000 towards local infrastructure, public services and community facilities. This includes funding towards Horsley Station accessibility improvements, local road safety measures, healthcare provision, youth facilities, playing fields and allotments.