We’re partnering with Guildford Borough Council to deliver 248 new homes
Disclaimer: CGI is provisional and will be refined during the community consultation period.
Today we’re announcing our new partnership with Guildford Borough Council (GBC) to develop a site in the heart of Guildford.
The £86 million project will transform a car park site into a vibrant urban neighbourhood, delivering up to 248 new homes with a commitment to 40% affordable housing. GBC is committing up to £39.7 million from the Housing Revenue Account to buy the affordable housing. This housing will be added to the 5,000 council homes it already owns and manages.
The initial proposals include 98 new affordable rent and shared ownership homes. The scheme will deliver a balanced mix of one, two, and three-bedroom homes, with some townhouses. Before finalising the design and seeking planning permission, extensive public and stakeholder consultation will take place.
The design work already carried out has set the scope for a sustainable housing scheme, that blends seamlessly with the surrounding environment.
The development will be designed to meet and exceed Future Homes Standards, achieving approximately a 90% reduction in carbon emissions. The scheme will also enhance and improve the natural habitat to achieve a 30% Biodiversity Net Gain.
The location boasts excellent connectivity. It is a 12-minute walk to the town centre via a pedestrian bridge and only an eight-minute walk to Guildford train station. The development will be served by regular bus services and pedestrian routes.
We will also be delivering a social value programme valued at around £11 million. This will include creating 40 new jobs for local residents, alongside offering extensive training, work, and upskilling opportunities. For the community, we’ve launched a variety of programs benefiting all age groups, including support for local community organisations, public art projects, literacy initiatives, foodbank support, and volunteering campaigns
We are pleased to be working in partnership with Guildford Borough Council to deliver much-needed affordable homes at the heart of the town centre. The development exemplifies our commitment to creating vibrant communities and providing quality homes in prime locations. Additionally, as a Surrey-headquartered business, it has been incredibly rewarding to support the local community and uplift the Guildford economy.”
Lee Bushell
Regional Director, Wates Group
I’m passionate about making Guildford an inclusive place to live – a town where local people can find homes that meet their needs, at a price they can afford.
This new neighbourhood will include a mix of new council homes for rent and affordable homes to buy. We’ll be focusing on creating a high quality, sustainable development where people are proud to live.
I’m pleased that we’re appointing Wates Group as our development partner. The company has shown that it shares our values and has the expertise to complete this development to a high standard.”
Cllr Julia McShane
Leader of the Council and Lead Councillor for Housing
