Cala Homes and Brooklands College have won consent for 320 homes in Weybridge.
The approval from Elmbridge Borough Council’s planning committee means a £45 million deal between Cala and the college can be completed which will help the college pay debts and upgrade facilities.
Under Cala’s ownership, the former college land, which is in the Green Belt, will be developed into the new Brooklands Grove scheme. Of the 320 homes, 128 will be available through affordable tenures including First Homes, shared ownership and affordable rent.
The site’s historic Grade II-listed Brooklands Mansion will be converted into 15 flats and there will also be community facilities and 12 hectares of woodland.
In addition, the plans will deliver a new special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) section for the college as well as a new sports centre, which will be open to the public.
John Richards, land & planning director at Cala Homes, said: “We are absolutely delighted to have secured planning permission for 320 homes in partnership with Brooklands College.
“This approval is a testament to the professionalism of the internal and external project team and the quality of the Cala product, which has enabled us to secure a locally supported very special circumstances consent on this Green Belt site in Surrey.
“Whilst achieving planning permission for 320 homes including 40 per cent affordable is a fantastic result for Cala, we are equally delighted that this secures the long-term future of Brooklands College as a vital educational resource not only for Weybridge but also Surrey as a whole.”
Mark Wilkinson, head of development consultancy at LSH, who advised on the land sale, added: “With demand for housing in Surrey at an all-time high, the proposed scheme will go some way to alleviating that demand. 40 per cent of the homes will be allocated for affordable housing, ensuring delivery of housing to those most in need.
“The site is exceptional. It will provide a wonderful living environment in a sustainable location, immediately adjacent to Weybridge train station and a short walk to the High Street.
“The revenue received will safeguard the ongoing operation of Brooklands College together with a comprehensive investment programme for new buildings and teaching facilities.”
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