Plans to build 400 homes in village criticised

Residents have criticised plans to build 400 homes in a Surrey village.

Proposals for a development near Dunsfold Road and Loxwood Road in Alfold have been submitted by developers Merchant Seaman's War Memorial Society and Thakeham Homes Limited.

They say the project would ease the housing shortage in Waverley.

Residents who have objected say the scheme would overburden infrastructure, roads and sewers, according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

One wrote: "Alfold's current infrastructure is already struggling to cope with existing demands", adding "the increase in population will inevitably lead to excessive traffic and congestion".

Another wrote the development would bring "further loss of our green spaces, flora and fauna" and Alfold's infrastructure and the A281 "cannot cope with more development than it has already seen".

If plans are approved, the houses and flats would have between one and four bedrooms and be a maximum of two and a half storeys.

Thakeham is currently building 99 homes near to the proposed site, in a separate development.

The developers issued a joint statement which said they were "committed to delivering an outstanding development that accords with the unique local character of Alfold and its surroundings".

It added: "Whilst still under construction, development of 99 homes on land to the immediate south east of the application site is an example of the exceptional quality and excellence that Thakeham is capable of delivering."

The developers said that the design of each home meets the council's sustainability plans.

The decision will be determined by Waverley Borough Council's planning committee by 27 May.

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