Woking’s council greenlights a new 26-storey tower, promising 272 homes and retail space, amid ongoing housing challenges in the area
Woking: The council has given the green light for a new 26-storey tower on the old BHS site. This project, called Crown Gardens, will bring 272 homes to the area. It’s a big step in addressing the housing shortage.
Donard Real Estate is behind the project. They plan to tear down the old store and build a mix of affordable and market-rate homes. Plus, there will be retail spaces on the ground floor, which is pretty cool.
They’re also planning to spruce up the area around Christ Church with some landscaping. This move is part of a broader effort to meet new housing targets and reduce pressure on green belt land.
One of the developers, Mervyn McFarland, mentioned that the building will mainly be made of brick. This is a good thing since it helps avoid issues with weather-damaged cladding, which has been a problem in the past.
McFarland emphasized that Crown Gardens will help young people and families stay in Woking. It’s all about creating a vibrant community and meeting the growing demand for housing.
He also pointed out that the project could bring around 700 new residents to the town center, which would boost local businesses by about £10 million a year. That’s a win-win!
Some folks were worried about parking, but the council decided that the location near Woking Railway Station makes it less of an issue. They’ve seen similar projects approved, so it seems like they’re on the right track.
Councillor Rob Leach shared his thoughts, saying that while he’s been skeptical about tall buildings in Woking, this development is better than encroaching on green spaces. It’s all about finding a balance.
