Surrey housing scheme set for green light

Plans for 60 homes on a 5.4-acre plot of land outside Ash and Tongham in Surrey have been recommended for approval despite opposition to the scheme.Thakeham Homes, a residential developer focused on sought after locations in Surrey, Sussex and Hampshire, is seeking permission to develop the houses, including 21 affordable properties, at a site currently comprising a number of stables and horse paddocks on land within countryside beyond the Green Belt.Thirty-five letters of objection were received including arguments that the site provides a green buffer between, Ash, Ash Green and Tongham and the existing paddocks are a focal point of the area. Another issue raised was the negative impact on the setting of surrounding listed buildings.In a report to be studied by councillors at Guildford Borough Council, the proposal has a high quality layout and design, creating an attractive residential development and would not impact the setting of nearby listed buildings, or the amenities enjoyed by occupants of nearby residential properties.While the development would change the character of the area, planning officers believe the harm is localised and outweighed by the economic benefits and additional housing.The application is recommended for conditional approval.