Green belt housing decisions to shape district

A series of major developments totalling more than 1,300 new homes are being planned across Tandridge district of Surrey, with debate over its use of highly-protected green belt land.

New proposals in Godstone, Oxted and beyond have triggered debates over how much the district should grow and what the future of the countryside should look like.

About 94% of Tandridge is classified as green belt land – the highest percentage in the county according to the district council and the Local Government Association.

Applications and Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs) have been submitted for multiple proposed projects, with decisions expected in 2026.

In South Godstone, 500 homes proposed in Pale Park Village could double the size of the village, with early plans now submitted.

Developers Regency and Co have asked Tandridge District Council for an EIA for the plans next to the A22, according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

The development, all of which is on green belt land, would also sit near several nature conservation sites, and could begin construction in 2027 if approved.

Other plans in Godstone include 250 homes proposed on 12 hectares (29.6 acres) of grazing land west of the village, which is also undergoing an EIA.

Full applications for both projects are expected in due course.

Another new 200-home neighbourhood is also proposed near South Godstone station, on 9.3 hectares (22.9 acres) of grassland, with residents fearing the plans could lead to "rat running" through the village and traffic issues.

An outline application has already been lodged, and a decision was due on 5 November but is still pending.

In Oxted, developer Croudace Homes wants to build up to 190 homes and a care home for 80 residents on green belt to the south of Barrow Green Road.

The outline proposal includes family homes and one and two-bedroom apartments, with up to 50% affordable housing.

Developers argue "very special circumstances" justify building on green belt due to acute housing demand and an undersupply of care beds projected to worsen through 2040.

An outline application for the project was refused, but an appeal has since been lodged.

And, in Chelsham near Warlingham, plans have also been submitted for 50 family homes and a 72-bed care home which would create a "vibrant and mixed community" for families and the elderly, according to applicants Wellbeck Land.

An outline application on the plans remains undecided.

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