150+ Homes Planned for Sunbury Green Belt Under New Rules
Major Housing Development Proposed Near Sunbury
A significant expansion is on the horizon for our corner of Surrey. Riverdale Developments has submitted plans to Spelthorne Borough Council for up to 158 new homes on vacant grassland off Vicarage Road in Sunbury-on-Thames—an area that’s been largely overlooked for years. What makes this proposal particularly noteworthy is its location within the green belt, the protective zone that typically shields our countryside from urban sprawl. The developer argues the site qualifies as “grey belt” under new national planning guidelines introduced in 2024, which allow certain undermanaged areas to be reconsidered for development. The proposed homes would range from two to four bedrooms, arranged as maisonettes, flats, and houses standing two to three stories tall. Importantly, half of the 158 units would be designated as affordable housing—a critical need across our region. The scheme also includes public open space and 300 parking spaces. Beyond residential properties, the site already has approval for a 60-bed care home plus 98 extra care units, addressing both our housing shortage and growing elderly care needs. The council has until December 24 to make its decision, making this a pivotal moment for Sunbury’s future.
What This Means for Local Communities and Services
If approved, this development would reshape daily life for residents across Sunbury and neighbouring areas like Horsley and East Horsley, which share similar concerns about housing pressures. The influx of new residents—potentially hundreds of families—will directly impact local services, schools, and infrastructure. Businesses in the area should prepare for increased demand; local bathroom fitters, plumbers, and contractors specialising in bathroom refurbishment and kitchen renovation will likely see surging work as new homeowners customise their properties. The Council will need to ensure GP surgeries, waste collection, and transport links can handle the population increase. However, the affordable housing element offers genuine relief for younger families and key workers who’ve struggled to find homes within their budget. The proposal also highlights an opportunity: with construction jobs and increased local spending, established traders in Woking, Guildford, and Dorking could benefit from expanded markets. The care facilities represent another positive—addressing the region’s shortage of quality elderly accommodation. Community groups should begin engaging with the planning process now, offering constructive feedback about traffic management, school capacity, and integration with existing neighbourhoods. Public consultation remains possible before the December deadline.
What Residents Should Do Next
Time is limited—the council’s decision deadline is December 24—so if you have concerns or support this proposal, now is the moment to act. Visit Spelthorne Borough Council’s planning portal to review the full application details and submit formal comments. Whether you’re worried about increased traffic on local roads, school capacity at nearby institutions, or environmental impact, your voice matters in the planning process. Attend any public consultations or council meetings; these are open to residents and offer direct access to decision-makers. Local ward councillors are also valuable allies—contact them with specific concerns about how this development affects your neighbourhood. Residents should also think practically: if development proceeds, local services will be stretched, so now is the time to engage your GP practice, schools, and council about infrastructure planning. For those interested in property investment or the building trades, this represents significant opportunity. Contractors specialising in kitchen renovation, bathroom refurbishment, and general home improvement should consider positioning themselves for the influx of new residents customising their homes. Finally, community organisations in Sunbury should coordinate responses and ensure their needs—green spaces, community facilities, parking—are included in any planning conditions. Stay informed through local news sources and council updates; this decision will shape Sunbury for decades to come.
Source: Surrey green belt could be developed for more than 150 new homes
