Residents could soon benefit from a significant new natural green space in Farnham following an agreement between Waverley Borough Council and the Ismaili Trust.
The proposals, which will be considered by councillors later this month, would see the council purchase 20.9 acres (8.45 hectares) of land off Hale Road, alongside Farnham Park, and transform it into a Suitable Alternative Natural Greenspace (SANG).
SANGs provide attractive places for walking, exercise and enjoying nature while helping to reduce recreational pressure on environmentally sensitive areas such as the Thames Basin Heaths Special Protection Area.
The proposed site would extend the green space next to Farnham Park, improve biodiversity and provide additional parking for visitors to both Farnham Park and neighbouring St John's Church.
The additional SANG capacity would also help unlock future housing delivery in the Farnham area. Planning rules require new developments within the Thames Basin Heaths zone of influence to mitigate their impact on protected habitats within the Special Protection Area. The proposed site could provide mitigation for around 439 to 532 new homes, including affordable housing.
Councillor Mark Merryweather, Waverley Borough Council's Portfolio Holder for Finance, Assets and Property, said:
"This is an exciting opportunity to create a wonderful new natural space for local people to enjoy for generations to come.
"By extending the green space next to Farnham Park, we can provide more opportunities for walking and exercise while helping to protect some of Surrey's most important wildlife habitats.
"The proposal would also support the delivery of much-needed new homes, including affordable homes, by providing the environmental mitigation required for new development.
"This has been a complex project that has taken time to bring forward. I would like to thank the Ismaili Trust, the current landowners, for the constructive way they have worked with the council throughout the process. We are delighted to have reached this important milestone."
President Naushad Jivraj of the Ismaili National Council said:
"The Ismaili Trust is pleased to have worked constructively with Waverley Borough Council to make this opportunity possible.
"We are delighted that the land will continue to serve the local community while supporting the protection of important wildlife habitats. We are also very pleased that the proposals will provide much-needed parking for St John's Church."
If approved, the land will be managed under a long-term plan developed in accordance with Natural England guidance. Its creation, management and maintenance will be funded through developer contributions secured through the planning process.
The proposal will be considered by Waverley Borough Council's Executive on 1 September. Consent from the West Surrey Shadow Authority will also be required before the purchase can proceed.
ENDS