Council set to hear residents' views on new homes

Hersham residents say they want to keep the village's character

Village residents facing three major developments will have the opportunity to give the council their views this summer.

With new housing possible on the site of a shopping centre, a golf club and a technology park, Hersham residents are "determined" the village retain its character.

Elmbridge Borough Council has received planning applications for a Waitrose site for 109 homes and the Hersham Golf Club.

The council said locals were "passionate and protective" of their green spaces.

Hersham, in Elmbridge, is a village of about 12,000 people, located between Esher and Weybridge.

A council statement said residents were "determined for Hersham to retain its character, for residents to support each other and for their community spirit to thrive".

Residents have raised concerns about the plans for the shopping centre being "more suitable to an inner city transport hub".

On Wednesday the portfolio holder for planning, enterprise and local economy will confirm proposals to engage with residents and other interested stakeholders on "plans and aspirations for Hersham".

Elmbridge previously shelved its own plans to build an M&S Foodhall in nearby Claygate, amid claims councillors had received abuse and intimidating emails.

Council documents state no planning application has been submitted for Hersham Technology Park but that it has been put up for sale.

Hersham Golf Club has been contacted for comment.

• Follow BBC South East on Facebook, on X, and on Instagram. Send your story ideas to [e-mail] or WhatsApp us on 08081 002250.