A bid to develop the historic filter beds site in Surbiton has split a group committed to high standards of planning, conservation and design.

At a public meeting on Wednesday, May 18, members of the Kingston Society were torn after a presentation by Hydro Properties, which owns the Portsmouth Road site.

Some were wildly in favour, some vehemently opposed, and others decided to sit on the fence until the final plans are submitted.

Ann Brown said: “I think this is a magnificent opportunity for Surbiton and I think we should grab it with both hands.”

But, some were concerned that wildlife unique to the site, such as lapwings and chalk grassland sites, would be destroyed if developers went ahead with their floating homes and nature reserve proposal.

Member Ken Peay remained cautious and, while recognising it was a superficially attractive proposal, said the feeling of openness on what he deemed a “green corridor” would be lost.

He said: “It would be a great error of judgment if this society gave support to this scheme so early on. I think there ought to be far more information before we decide on it.”

The full application is due for submission within the next month, but no final date has been set.