One million pounds will be allocated to an ambitious project to transform Leatherhead, but some councillors have reservations about the plan and future of the historic market town.
The Swan Centre in Leatherhead
Mole Valley District Council voted to set aside the funds for the Transform Leatherhead project at a full council meeting on Tuesday, July 12.
The project includes plans for a vibrant urban quarter, a renovated shopping centre, a simplified road system and a new riverside park.
From April: Mole Valley District Council buys Swan Centre ahead of plans to Transform Leatherhead
Over 3,000 people have voiced their opinion on the Transform Leatherhead project since it was launched in March 2015.
From June 2015: What do you think needs to be done to transform Leatherhead?
From November 2015: Mole Valley District Council seek public suggestions on how to Transform Leatherhead
Transform Leatherhead also includes plans to develop the site at Bull Hill and renovate the Swan Centre, which was bought by the council in April.
Thirty-four councillors voted to allocate £1 million in reserves to fund the project. One councillor abstained.
Cllr Howard Jones (pictured above), executive member for town centres, said: “This is one of the biggest projects that the council will have going on for a number of years.
“We may have to make short-term decisions in terms of bidding for people’s services and we don’t want every single financial decision to go through this process. This will give the team flexibility as they put this project in motion.”
A number of councillors were concerned about the project.
Cllr Margaret Cooksey (pictured above) said: “We have welcomed the initiative from the start and support, and we do see much value in the draft Masterplan that has been produced.
“Unfortunately, however, the document fails to identify a distinctive vision for Leatherhead.
“If Leatherhead is to thrive as more than a motorway junction and a convenient railway station for commuters it needs a real purpose.”
Cllr Claire Malcolmson (pictured above) was concerned the project offered “nothing for leisure and the arts”.
She said: “I’m concerned about the council and commercial rents going up.
“I’m worried that it will endanger a number of local businesses and will lead to shop units being taken up by expensive, exclusive shops that only a few can afford to shop in.”
The council will hold a final vote at an Executive meeting on Tuesday, July 19.
For more information, visit the Mole Valley District Council website.
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