FORTY homes could be built on a derelict site in the heart of Merstham.
Reigate and Banstead Borough Council's planning committee has approved a full planning application by Raven Housing to build the 24 houses and 16 flats in Purbeck Close, off Portland Drive.
The site has already been cleared, after planning permission was granted in 2010 for a different scheme for 49 homes, most of them flats, but construction work has not been started.
Councillors unanimously approved the latest proposal at their meeting last Wednesday.
Committee chairman and ward councillor Mark Brunt said: "This is an improvement on the last one, which was generally regarded as [looking like] a number of spaceships were landing in Merstham.
"I am a lot happier with these buildings. They will stimulate regeneration in the area which is very keenly needed. I am also happy to see more houses rather than flats as family homes are needed in this area."
Ten of the units will be for private sale but the rest will be affordable homes.
