Starcross Farm, Farnham: Green Belt Housing Development

Client: Private Client

Architect: Rodic Davidson

Description of Development: Demolition of an existing house and equestrian buildings and construction of five new dwellings with associated landscaping and ancillary facilities.

Location: Starcross Farm, Green Lane, Farnham, Surrey, GU10 2AP

Project Overview: Planning in the Green Belt

In December 2024, a full planning application was submitted for the redevelopment of Starcross Farm, a site located within the Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) and Green Belt. Maddox Planning has taken a lead role in balancing the sensitive environmental and heritage considerations with the delivery of five high-quality homes. This project reflects the team's expertise in overcoming the complexities of green planning to achieve sustainable and attractive developments.

The new development at Starcross Farm successfully integrates into its surroundings

Planning a Housing Development on Green Belt Land: Key Issues Addressed

1. Green Belt and AONB Compliance: The design respects Green Belt openness and enhances the Surrey Hills AONB through sensitive architectural choices and landscaping improvements.

   
   

2. Environmental Sustainability: Incorporating permeable surfaces, renewable energy systems, and additional green spaces, the project aligns with modern environmental standards.

   
   

3. Local and Regional Planning Needs: Responding to the Council's housing supply deficit, this project optimises the use of previously developed land, showing how green belt housing development can support sustainable growth.

   
   

4. Community Integration: The proposal addresses local concerns around traffic, privacy, and visual impact, ensuring minimal disruption and a positive relationship with the surrounding area.

   
   

5. Pre-Application Feedback Compliance:The scheme aligns with the Council’s guidance, including adjustments to building heights, material choices and site access to preserve the rural character.

   
   

A High-Quality Green Belt Housing Development: The Highlights

• Design: The five dwellings are designed to resemble a traditional farmstead, integrating seamlessly into the rural landscape while providing modern, energy-efficient homes.

  
  

• Sustainability: The project achieves a 10% Biodiversity Net Gain through a mix of on-site and off-site measures and incorporates renewable energy solutions like air source heat pumps.

• Housing Contribution: By optimising previously developed land, the scheme helps address the local housing shortfall, delivering five much-needed family homes.

  
  

• Economic Benefits: The development will generate significant local economic activity, including construction jobs and ongoing contributions to the local economy through household spending.

  
  

• Landscaping: The proposal enhances the site’s aesthetic with high-quality landscaping that supports local biodiversity and complements the surrounding AONB.

  
  

Delivery Success in Green Belt Planning

The Starcross Farm redevelopment exemplifies Maddox Planning’s ability to secure positive outcomes for complex green belt planning applications. By carefully balancing policy requirements with community and environmental priorities, the project demonstrates how a well-designed development on green belt land can meet housing needs, enhance the local landscape and deliver last benefits.