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500 homes to spring from sand quarry

A large regeneration project is underway, turning Holmethorpe sand quarry in Redhill into a visionary new sustainable community.

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Artist's impression of Water Colour

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The project, called Water Colour will encompass every aspect of a thriving contemporary community, says developer Linden Homes, and combines the best of traditional village life with the design principles of the twenty-first century.

A total of 498 units, of which 147 are affordable housing, will be made up of one and two-bedroom apartments and two, three and four-bedroom family homes.

Incorporated into the 27-hectare scheme will be every amenity necessary for a new village, such as nursery, doctor's surgery, health and fitness club, convenience shop and a number of small business workshops.

The homes range from urban apartment blocks to small courtyards and mews of traditional style houses, and larger three-storey terraces running alongside the canal. Parking is provided with an average of 1.5 spaces per unit, but pedestrians take priority throughout the development with an extensive network of footpaths and car-free zones.

Water is a key feature, with two existing lagoons to the southern edge of the development being retained as wildlife sanctuaries in partnership with Surrey Wildlife.

There is also a canal, stream and reed beds as well as a further 25-acre nature reserve that is being gifted to Surrey Wildlife and will not be disturbed by traffic or development.

The development is set in the heart of leafy Surrey with views over the surrounding countryside, and the village itself will incorporate over seven and a half acres of public open space. This will include communal gardens, parks and designated children's play areas.

Ian Randall, managing director of Linden Homes South East commented: "The creation of Water Colour is a huge regeneration project and we are delighted to be underway, building on our existing track record of creating thriving new communities out of redundant brownfield land."

As part of its ongoing commitment to renewable energy, Linden will also be installing solar panels on many of the homes.

Linden Homes is making more than £1.4 million in contributions towards local facilities and services, including over half a million pounds towards a bus service to serve the development, as well as education provision, primary health care and community facilities.

In addition, Linden has constructed a relief road to redirect traffic away from the existing and new homes, alleviating the traffic problems currently experienced in Merstham.