Councillors are recommending the land adjacent to Hersham Place Technology Park is redeveloped by Berkeley Homes.

On Monday, Elmbridge Cabinet will meet to discuss the inclusion of land adjacent to Hersham Place Technology Park on the southeast side of Queensway, Hersham in the redevelopment of the wider site previously occupied by Air Products.

The report submitted to Cabinet follows consultation with Hersham residents on whether it should include this land within proposals for the redevelopment of the site.

It will recommend that Elmbridge Borough Council enters into an agreement on the land adjacent to Hersham Place Technology Park on the southeast side of Queensway, Hersham site with Berkeley Homes to enable a more comprehensive development of the Hersham Place Technology Park with wider community benefits.

This is subject to planning.

The authority says the plans have been drawn up following a public consultation, but only 1.2% of the Hersham community took part and of that 1.2%, 79 people were not in favour, while the 70 who were, included Surrey County Council.

From Elmbridge Borough Council;

Hersham has a population of around 12,625, and during the consultation, 155 people and groups shared their views through the survey, about 1.2% of the community.

51% (79 people) were not in favour of the proposal.
45% (70 people), including Surrey County Council, supported it.
4% (6 people) were undecided, saying they needed more information.

Those who supported the land inclusion, added that any green space lost should be replaced or relocated, a second vehicle access from Queensway would be helpful and they highlighted that community benefits should focus on a GP surgery, open space, or a library – not more housing.

Those who opposed the idea were mainly worried about losing green space and a well-used footpath. There were also doubts expressed about whether promised community benefits would be delivered and there was a feeling that the land should only be used for leisure or recreation, not housing.

Surrey County Council supported the proposal, highlighting the chance to create a safer, more accessible route that avoids the busy A244/Queensway—something that fits with the walking and cycling goals.

They also noted there are currently no plans to redevelop Hersham Library.