Residents' anger over major housing estate plan

Developers Martin Grant Homes have submitted plans for 1,800 new homes, two schools, shops, offices and 250-space park and ride at Gosden Hill

Residents near a proposed new housing estate on farmland in Surrey say they fear traffic chaos and crumbling services if its approved.

Plans for 1,800 new homes, two schools, shops, offices and a 250-space park and ride site at Gosden Hill, near Guildford, has been submitted by Martin Grant Homes.

The developers said the scheme would bring "much-needed new homes, schools and improved transportation" to the area.

However, dozens of nearby residents have submitted objections, citing road congestion, overloaded health services and using green belt land, according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

One resident said the development was "effectively a very large cul-de-sac".

"It would have a single vehicular access. Nearly all traffic would be forced onto London Road, which is already over-congested at peak times," they said.

Other locals called for the new A3 junction to be finished before any houses are built, and want northbound access so cars are not funnelled through Burpham.

A doctor also raised concerns over the lack of GP or pharmacy provisions for thousands of new residents if the development went ahead.

Another resident added: "The emotional toll of losing green space, peace and the familiarity of our surroundings cannot be overstated".

However, the developer said that the project would deliver "much-needed" new homes.

Planning documents also state that the project would include "significant green space" to soften the impact, including new accessible woodland space at Cotts Wood, new playing fields, multi-functional green spaces and village squares.

Comments on the application can be made until October 1, with Guildford Borough Council to make a decision later in the year.

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