Fears 107 new homes would overwhelm infrastructure

Residents have criticised plans for more than 100 homes in a Surrey town claiming the area's infrastructure would be unable to deal with the increased population.

Developer Taylor Wimpey wants to build 107 new homes at Oakley Farm, in Bletchingley Road, Merstham.

The developer says the project would help Reigate & Banstead Borough Council meet its housing targets.

But more than 200 objections have been submitted to the council by people who say Merstham's schools, GPs and roads could not handle the new households.

If approved, eight agricultural buildings currently on the land would be demolished to make way for the new homes, of which 37 will be "affordable".

About half of the 7.8 hectare (19 acre) site will be open space and will include an area to be used by travellers, the Local Democracy Reporting Service reports.

People have also said they fear "the beautiful surroundings" would be "disturbed and ruined" by the development.

Taylor Wimpey says it hopes to create a new access to Bletchingley Road and a new bicycle and pedestrian link in the south-eastern corner of the site.

A spokesperson for the developer said: "We are currently gathering all feedback following our consultation and have not yet entered into any agreements with the council.

"We will be working closely with the council and local stakeholders to address all concerns responsibly."

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