Indicative view of the proposals looking north

By David Reading

A proposed £86 million project that will transform the car park at Guildford Park Road into housing is about to go out to consultation.

Guildford Borough Council says there is the potential to deliver around 248 new “high-quality” homes. The outline design includes 40 per cent affordable housing as well as public spaces.

The consultation is being launched by the borough council and development company Wates in advance of finalising the design and seeking planning permission.

A series of consultation events will be held across Guildford. Residents are invited to meet the project team, learn more about the emerging plans, ask questions and share their views.

The events are scheduled for:

• Saturday, March 29th, from 10am to 2pm at The Rotunda, next to The Friary, Guildford town centre
• Thursday, April 3rd, from 10am to 2pm at the University of Surrey Student Union
• Thursday, April 3rd, from 3pm to 8pm at Grace Church, 70 Guildford Park Road GU2 7NF

Guildford Park Road car park is a site allocated for redevelopment in the borough council’s Local Plan. 

The project is part of a wider programme for housing-led regeneration of sites that Guildford Borough Council owns.

As part of the emerging proposals, Wates say they will be delivering a “social value programme”, which will include creating 40 new jobs for local residents alongside offering extensive training, work, and upskilling opportunities. The company says the programme will benefit all age groups, including support for local community organisations, public art projects, literacy initiatives, foodbank support and volunteering campaigns.

Cllr Julia McShane (Lib Dem, Westborough), Leader of the Council and Lead Councillor for Housing, said: “I’m committed to making Guildford an inclusive community, where local people can find homes that suit their needs, at a price they can afford. Whether renting or buying, we want this new neighbourhood to be somewhere residents feel proud to call home.

“I’m thrilled that our partnership with Wates will not only see new council homes being built, but also result in new jobs, more training opportunities and funding for initiatives that support local communities.”

Lee Bushell, Regional Managing Director of Wates Residential, said: “At the heart of our vision is creating a blueprint for sustainable living. By regenerating the car park, we can increase biodiversity and foster an environment where people and nature can thrive – all while providing residents affordable, high-quality homes in a well-connected town centre location.

“Delivering real social value and ensuring early benefits for the community are central to us. We look forward to gathering feedback on the proposals to shape a development that everyone can take pride in.”

Following the consultation and development of the proposals, a planning application is likely to be submitted in the summer.

To learn more about the upcoming events, please visit www.guildfordparkroad.com