Tandridge District Council - TA/2007/1794

A collective cheer was raised on the 13th February 2008 with the welcome news that the Planning Application for an Equestrian Centre has been refused by Tandridge District Council.  Their decision was based on the factors that many opponents of the application had raised.

"It has not been demonstrated that the proposed equestrian centre could be satisfactorily accommodated on the site. No details are provided with regard to the nature of the proposal to enable the Council to properly consider its potential impact on the character and openness of the Green Belt and the Area of Local Landscape Significance, local residential amenity, the safety, efficiency and capacity of the local highway network, the recreational value of the land and local employment levels"

A similar decision is anticipated from Reigate and Banstead Borough Council shortly.

This decision is another blow to the owners of the aerodrome, 'RAVL', who persist in their speculative ventures at a horrendous cost to the taxpayer.  RAVL have made no secret of the fact that their ultimate aim is to convert the aerodrome into a massive development of new buildings or infrastructure.  Their 'preferred option' is to build a 'balanced community settlement' (village) on the site which, if successful, would decimate the area, the environment and the existing community.  We will continue to watch any future proposals very carefully and keep you updated here.