Up to 250 homes could be built near Godstone on protected Surrey green belt

Applicant SPDL envisions a new neighbourhood on the edge of Godstone which could feature a range of new places to live.

The proposed site covers nearly 12 hectares of land and comprises fields of grassland that is used mostly for grazing.

The developer has asked Tandridge District Council for a formal opinion on what information it should supply for an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) – this is called ‘scoping’- ahead of a planning application.

While details are scarce, the proposed scheme is likely to comprise 250 new homes, lots of open spaces and potentially a children’s play area.

Planning documents state the development could have different densities across the site and will include an element of affordable housing.

This could be affordable rented, shared ownership, and low cost / reduced cost market housing.

The wider area of the site is characterised by main motorways including the M25, the local roads, large areas of woodland, an existing quarry, agricultural fields, and pockets of residential neighbourhoods.

Tandridge is made up of around 92 per cent green belt which separates towns and prevents urban sprawl.

Applicant SPDL claims the proposed development is not likely to have significant effects on the environment due to its nature, size or location and so, does not require an EIA.

Although part of the site overlaps part of the Surrey Hills National Landscape, planning documents claim this part does not show the characteristics of the national landscape.

No records of badgers, birds or amphibians were noted on the site.

Documents referenced a hedgerow in the corner of the Site which was suitable for Dormice but said some existing off-site habitats may be suitable.

Adding a new neighbourhood onto the west side of Godstone could increase a demand in health care services and school places, planning documents state.

But the developer suggests the impact is likely to be minimal, claiming 250 new homes is “a relatively small size” project.

Comments are welcome until June 11, and a decision is due on the same day.