Ex-1960s bedsit block paving way for all-affordable Surrey scheme

A former 1960s block of single-occupancy bedsits in Leatherhead is this year being transformed into a high-quality new housing scheme – with all 36 homes being delivered as affordable for local people.

Clarion Housing Group, the UK’s largest social landlord, is breathing new life into its Surrey site having demolished the previous poor quality units to pave way for a modern collection of homes for social rent, affordable rent and shared ownership sale.

Working with development partner Sunninghill, Clarion is redeveloping the land to build 36 one, two and three-bedroom apartments and houses set across three blocks. The houses are in especially high demand among local residents, and are a mix of terraced and semi-detached properties.

The site – known as Kingston House Gardens – sits in a prime location within walking distance of Leatherhead’s town centre and railway station. The new development will also deliver parking facilities, cycle storage and new green space.

Richard Cook, group development director at Clarion, said:

“This project is a great example of how quality partnership working can deliver affordable housing options in prime locations. Our work with Sunninghill and Mole Valley District Council will bring much-needed housing to Leatherhead that will serve families and generations to come.”

Martin Linfield, operations director at Sunninghill, said:

“We are delighted to be collaborating with Clarion Housing Group to redevelop the Kingston House Gardens estate in Leatherhead, and provide vital and sustainable affordable housing for the local community.”

Mole Valley District Council, which approved the partnership’s planning application in September 2022, is providing funding for 20 of the new homes to support the delivery of the social and affordable rented units.. The remaining 16 units are being funded solely by Clarion’s own subsidy.

Work began on the site in January 2023 and the homes are expected to complete in autumn 2024.