Village improvement project to benefit from £1.25m

The improvements are expected to be carried out in 2026

A pot of £1.25m is set to go towards a village improvement project in Surrey, on top of an additional £1.35m committed by the county council.

Epsom and Ewell Borough Council said the agreement of its contribution towards the Ewell village project was an "important milestone" and would ensure it could go ahead as planned in 2026.

The improvements, which include new pedestrian crossings, greenery and a 20mph village speed limit, aim to make the high street safer.

Surrey County Council said the project would deliver "necessary change" whilst also reflecting the community's wishes.

The plans were finalised earlier in 2024 following several public exhibitions and an online engagement, in which more than 1,400 responses were received.

Matt Furniss, Surrey County Council's cabinet member for highways, transport and economic growth, said: "Delivering these improvements to Ewell village will bring about much-needed safety enhancements to the high street, whilst still allowing vehicle access.

"We know this was important for many local people and believe the plans deliver necessary change, whilst reflecting what the community want in their village.”

Clive Woodbridge, Epsom and Ewell Borough Council's chair of the community and wellbeing committee, said the project would "hugely benefit residents, businesses, and visitors".

The councillor thanked the county council for ensuring the village would maintain "its unique, and historical, characteristics for many years to come, whilst improving accessibility and safety throughout the village".