Development of 400 homes could 'save dying town'
The proposed Bull Hill regeneration scheme in Leatherhead includes housing and shops.
**Development of 400 homes could 'save dying town'**
Councillors argued over plans for 400 homes in the town.
A disputed 400-home development is the best way to save Leatherhead from "dying", one councillor has said.
The remarks were made during a debate at Mole Valley District Council about the proposed Bull Hill regeneration scheme, which has drawn opposition from some residents.
Independent councillor Gerry Sevenoaks voiced worries about traffic and prolonged construction work, and said some of the financial and community benefits first proposed had been scaled back.
Councillors backing the scheme said there was a strong silent majority in support of it, and that it was not raised as a major issue by residents during the local elections, according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service.
Liberal Democrat councillor Claire Malcomson said: "Whatever happens it will improve Leatherhead because Leatherhead, as mentioned, is a dying town, and it needs improvement.
"It needs more housing to feed the shops, and entertainment, and the theatre, and that is the whole point of it.
"Yes, some things have had to be cut back because the climate has changed, but I do think ultimately Leatherhead will benefit from this."
Sevenoaks said the project, a joint venture between the council and Kier Property, would bring more traffic congestion and years of building work, adding: "It will look like carnage."
He said the development originally featured affordable housing, social housing, a refurbished Swan Centre, a cinema and financial profit for investment in the town, but that the benefits had been reduced.
"The profit share is down from £22m to £14m, reduced car parking, and no cinema or leisure facilities, and we see there is no social housing," he said.