The Situation Has Changed
Many residents believed that Downs Farm and Priest Hill had effectively been ruled out for large-scale development. Unfortunately, that is no longer the case.
Following a dramatic change in direction, Epsom & Ewell Borough Council has withdrawn its previous position and is now consulting on revised proposals that could result in more than 970 new homes being built across Downs Farm and Priest Hill.
At the same time, developers have continued discussions with the Council and are progressing plans for major housing schemes on these highly valued Green Belt sites.
This represents one of the most serious threats our local countryside has faced.
Why Residents Are Concerned
Residents have raised concerns about:
• The sudden reversal of previous Green Belt assessments.
• The lack of transparency surrounding recent changes to the Local Plan evidence base.
• The limited consultation period and insufficient time for public scrutiny.
• The impact on traffic congestion along Reigate Road, Cheam Road and surrounding local roads.
• Pressure on schools, GP services and local infrastructure.
• The loss of important Green Belt land, wildlife habitats and biodiversity.
ACT NOW – THREE THINGS YOU CAN DO
1. Complete the Consultation Before 15 June
This is the most important action you can take.
Please submit your response before the consultation closes on 15 June. A draft response template is attached which you may use and adapt to reflect your own views.
When submitting your response, please include any local evidence you may have, including:
• Photographs of wildlife, habitats and biodiversity.
• Evidence of flooding or drainage issues.
• Traffic congestion photographs or observations.
• Any other information demonstrating the value of these Green Belt sites.
2. Email the Council Regarding Consultation Concerns
Many residents have concerns about the process, governance and legitimacy of the current consultation.
A draft email is can be downloaded here which residents can send to:
monitoringofficer@epsom-ewell.gov.uk
You are encouraged to personalise the email and include your own concerns.
3. Contact Your Councillors
Please write to your local councillors and explain your concerns about the proposed developments, the consultation process and the impact on our community. Their email addresses are as below:
alan.avis@epsomandewelllibdems.org.uk
Helen.maguire.mp@parliament.uk
Personal emails from residents carry significant weight and help demonstrate the strength of local feeling.
Every Response Matters
The Council and the Planning Inspector need to hear directly from local residents.
Please do not assume others will respond on your behalf.
Complete the consultation, submit your evidence, and encourage friends, neighbours and family members to do the same before 15 June.
Finally, please share these leaflets via social media so that more people can respond.
Together we can ensure that the voice of our community is heard.
Keep Epsom & Ewell Green Belt 